bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methylphenidate and Short-Term Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Garcia-Argibay Miguel , Bürkner Paul-Christian , Lichtenstein Paul , Zhang Le , D’Onofrio Brian M. , Andell Pontus , Chang Zheng , Cortese Samuele , Larsson Henrik
Published: March 2024

Importance

There are concerns about the safety of medications for treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with mixed evidence on possible cardiovascular risk.

Objective

To assess whether short-term methylphenidate use is associated with risk of cardiovascular events.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, population-based cohort study was based on national Swedish registry data. Participants were individuals with ADHD aged 12 to 60 years with dispensed prescriptions of methylphenidate between January 1, 2007, and June 30, 2012. Each person receiving methylphenidate (n = 26 710) was matched on birth date, sex, and county to up to 10 nonusers without ADHD (n = 225 672). Statistical analyses were performed from September 13, 2022, to May 16, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Rates of cardiovascular events, including ischemic heart disease, venous thromboembolism, heart failure, or tachyarrhythmias, 1 year before methylphenidate treatment and 6 months after treatment initiation were compared between individuals receiving methylphenidate and matched controls using a bayesian within-individual design. Analyses were stratified by history of cardiovascular events.

Results

The cohort included 252 382 individuals (15 442 [57.8% men]; median age, 20 (IQR, 15-31) years). The overall incidence of cardiovascular events was 1.51 per 10 000 person-weeks (95% highest density interval [HDI], 1.35-1.69) for individuals receiving methylphenidate and 0.77 (95% HDI, 0.73-0.82) for the matched controls. Individuals treated with methylphenidate had an 87% posterior probability of having a higher rate of cardiovascular events after treatment initiation (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.41; 95% HDI, 1.09-1.88) compared with matched controls (IRR, 1.18; 95% HDI, 1.02-1.37). The posterior probabilities were 70% for at least a 10% increased risk of cardiovascular events in individuals receiving methylphenidate vs 49% in matched controls. No difference was found in this risk between individuals with and without a history of cardiovascular disease (IRR, 1.11; 95% HDI, 0.58-2.13).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, individuals receiving methylphenidate had a small increased cardiovascular risk vs matched controls in the 6 months after treatment initiation. However, there was little evidence for an increased risk of 20% or higher and for differences in risk increase between people with and without a history of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, before treatment initiation, careful consideration of the risk-benefit trade-off of methylphenidate would be useful, regardless of cardiovascular history.
TERRA and the alternative lengthening of telomeres: a dangerous affair
Authors: Azzalin Claus M.
Published: March 2024

Eukaryotic telomeres are transcribed into the long noncoding RNA TERRA. A fraction of TERRA remains associated with telomeres by forming RNA:DNA hybrids dubbed telR‐loops. TERRA and telR‐loops are essential to promote telomere elongation in human cancer cells that maintain telomeres through a homology‐directed repair pathway known as alternative lengthening of telomeres or ALT. However, TERRA and telR‐loops compromise telomere integrity and cell viability if their levels are not finely tuned. The study of telomere transcription in ALT cells will enormously expand our understanding of the ALT mechanism and of how genome integrity is maintained. Moreover, telomere transcription, TERRA and telR‐loops are likely to become exceptionally suited targets for the development of novel anti‐cancer therapies.
Valleytronics Meets Straintronics: Valley Fine Structure Engineering of 2D Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Yang Shichao , Long Hanyan , Chen Wenwei , Sa Baisheng , Guo Zhiyong , Zheng Jingying , Pei Jiajie , Zhan Hongbing , Lu Yuerui
Published: March 2024

2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have emerged as a novel class of semiconductors with promising applications in optoelectronics, owing to their rich and tunable valley fine structure, known as valleytronics. Strain engineering in TMDs presents opportunities to tailor their valley fine structures and band alignment, which greatly expands the potential to investigate their intrinsic properties and improve device performance, thus opening a new field of straintronics. In this review, recent advances in strain‐engineered 2D TMDs are summarized, with a focus on new phenomena and applications enabled by precision tuning of valley physics. The underlying mechanisms and connections are delineated between strain‐induced modifications to the valley fine structures based on intravalley, intervalley, and interlayer band alignment in single and heterostructure TMDs. These insights allow targeted strain control strategies to be devised for optimizing optoelectronic characteristics. This review provides perspectives and guidance on the future directions of valley‐straintronics and flexible 2D optoelectronics using TMDs, highlighting the substantial promise of valley‐strain engineering in TMDs for fundamental valley physics studies as well as practical device applications.
Greenness, Genetic Predisposition, and Tinnitus
Authors: Yuan Lan‐Lai , Li Dan‐Kang , Tian Yao‐Hua , Sun Yu
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to investigate the association between residential greenness and tinnitus and the potential interaction between greenness and genetic predisposition to tinnitus. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is used to measure residential greenness. The tinnitus is defined based on self‐reported. In the cross‐sectional analyses, logistic regression models are used for the baseline sample of the United Kingdom Biobank cohort. In the secondary analysis, a Cox proportional hazard model is used for a subsample of participants who completed the tinnitus questionnaire at follow‐up. In the cross‐sectional analysis including 106471 participants, higher residential greenness is associated with lower odds of tinnitus for each interquartile range increase in continuous NDVI, with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.97 (95% confidence interval: 0.95 to 0.99) for tinnitus. A similar association is observed in the longitudinal analysis, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.92 (95% confidence interval: 0.86 to 0.98) for the association of NDVI increased per interquartile range with incident tinnitus. Moreover, there is a significant interaction between greenness and genetic predisposition to tinnitus (P < 0.05). This study suggested that residential greenness is negatively associated with tinnitus. Greenness and genetic predisposition to tinnitus are found to have a significant interaction.
Hallmark Molecular and Pathological Features of POLG Disease are Recapitulated in Cerebral Organoids
Authors: Chen Anbin , Yangzom Tsering , Hong Yu , Lundberg Bjørn Christian , Sullivan Gareth John , Tzoulis Charalampos , Bindoff Laurence A. , Liang Kristina Xiao
Published: March 2024

In this research, a 3D brain organoid model is developed to study POLG‐related encephalopathy, a mitochondrial disease stemming from POLG mutations. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from patients with these mutations is utilized to generate cortical organoids, which exhibited typical features of the diseases with POLG mutations, such as altered morphology, neuronal loss, and mitochondiral DNA (mtDNA) depletion. Significant dysregulation is also identified in pathways crucial for neuronal development and function, alongside upregulated NOTCH and JAK‐STAT signaling pathways. Metformin treatment ameliorated many of these abnormalities, except for the persistent affliction of inhibitory dopamine‐glutamate (DA GLU) neurons. This novel model effectively mirrors both the molecular and pathological attributes of diseases with POLG mutations, providing a valuable tool for mechanistic understanding and therapeutic screening for POLG‐related disorders and other conditions characterized by compromised neuronal mtDNA maintenance and complex I deficiency.
Boosted Sacrificial‐Agent‐Free Selective Photoreduction of CO2 to CH3OH by Rhenium Atomically Dispersed on Indium Oxide
Authors: Shen Chenyang , Meng Xin‐Yu , Zou Rui , Sun Kaihang , Wu Qinglei , Pan Yun‐Xiang , Liu Chang‐Jun
Published: March 2024

Solar‐energy‐driven photoreduction of CO2 is promising in alleviating environment burden, but suffers from low efficiency and over‐reliance on sacrificial agents. Herein, rhenium (Re) is atomically dispersed in In2O3 to fabricate a 2Re‐In2O3 photocatalyst. In sacrificial‐agent‐free photoreduction of CO2 with H2O, 2Re‐In2O3 shows a long‐term stable efficiency which is enhanced by 3.5 times than that of pure In2O3 and is also higher than those on Au‐In2O3, Ag‐In2O3, Cu‐In2O3, Ir‐In2O3, Ru‐In2O3, Rh‐In2O3 and Pt‐In2O3 photocatalysts. Moreover, carbon‐based product of the photoreduction overturns from CO on pure In2O3 to CH3OH on 2Re‐In2O3. Re promotes charge separation, H2O dissociation and CO2 activation, thus enhancing photoreduction efficiency of CO2 on 2Re‐In2O3. During the photoreduction, CO is a key intermediate. CO prefers to desorption rather than hydrogenation on pure In2O3, as CO binds to pure In2O3 very weakly. Re strengthens the interaction of CO with 2Re‐In2O3 by 5.0 times, thus limiting CO desorption but enhancing CO hydrogenation to CH3OH. This could be the origin for photoreduction product overturn from CO on pure In2O3 to CH3OH on 2Re‐In2O3. The present work opens a new way to boost sacrificial‐agent‐free photoreduction of CO2.
Pharmacokinetic study of multicomponent in Hong‐Hua‐Xiao‐Yao tablet
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Huang Leyi , Xiao Junping , Zhang Xuemei
Published: March 2024

Hong‐Hua‐Xiao‐Yao tablet (HHXYT) is attracting attention increasingly because of its use in treatment of mammary gland hyperplasia (MGH) and menopausal syndrome. However, its pharmacokinetics remains unclear. This study developed a sensitive and rapid method for simultaneous determination of 10 compounds of HHXYT in rat plasma by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and to compare the pharmacokinetics of these compounds in MGH rats and sham operated rats. The linearity, accuracy, precision, stability and matrix effect were within acceptable ranges. This established method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetics study of 10 compounds in sham operated and MGH rats. According to the results, the bioavailability of glycyrrhetinic acid was highest in MGH rats and sham operated rats. The mean residence times of glycyrrhetinic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid 3‐O‐glucuronide were higher than those of the other compounds while the mean residence time and half‐life of liquiritin, isoliquiritin and paeoniflorin were lower. Some pharmacokinetic parameters of ormononetin, liquiritigenin, isoliquiritigenin, liquiritin, isoliquiritin, paeoniflorin, protocatechuic acid and senkyunolide I were significantly different between MGH rats and sham operated rats. This study elucidated the dynamic changes of multiple components in rats after oral administration of HHXYT systematically and comprehensively, which provided guidance for clinical application.
Computerized Executive Functions Training: The efficacy on reading performance of children with dyslexia
Authors: Basharpoor Sajjad , Seif Elham , Daneshvar Somayeh
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to test the efficacy of a newly developed computer‐based game naming computerized executive functions (CEF) task on the reading ability of children suffering from dyslexia. Forty dyslexic school students from the fourth and fifth grades were randomized to one of the experimental and control groups. Subjects of the experimental group received 12 sessions of Computerized Executive Functions Training (CEFT), while subjects of the control group played a neutral computer game throughout the 12 sessions. All participants responded to the Reading and Dyslexia Test (NEMA) as the pre‐ and post‐test measure. Results revealed a significant improvement in the reading ability of subjects of the experimental group compared to the control group. Subjects of the experimental group indicated a greater improvement in some components of the NEMA scale including word reading, word chains reading, picture naming, text comprehension, word comprehension and letter fluency relative to the control group. CEFT had no significant effect in modifying the category fluency, phoneme elimination and rhyming components of the NEMA scale. Applying CEFT improves the reading performance of children with dyslexia by enforcing their cognitive abilities like working memory, inhibition control and cognitive flexibility which are necessary for normal reading ability.
Flood‐irrigated agriculture mediates climate‐induced wetland scarcity for summering sandhill cranes in western North America
Authors: Donnelly J. Patrick , Collins Daniel P. , Knetter Jeffrey M. , Gammonley James H. , Boggie Matthew A. , Grisham Blake A. , Nowak M. Cathy , Naugle David E.
Published: March 2024

Information about species distributions is lacking in many regions of the world, forcing resource managers to answer complex ecological questions with incomplete data. Information gaps are compounded by climate change, driving ecological bottlenecks that can act as new demographic constraints on fauna. Here, we construct greater sandhill crane (Antigone canadensis tabida) summering range in western North America using movement data from 120 GPS‐tagged individuals to determine how landscape composition shaped their distributions. Landscape variables developed from remotely sensed data were combined with bird locations to model distribution probabilities. Additionally, land‐use and ownership were summarized within summer range as a measure of general bird use. Wetland variables identified as important predictors of bird distributions were evaluated in a post hoc analysis to measure long‐term (1984–2022) effects of climate‐driven surface water drying. Wetlands and associated agricultural practices accounted for 1.2% of summer range but were key predictors of occurrence. Bird distributions were structured by riparian floodplains that concentrated wetlands, and flood‐irrigated agriculture in otherwise arid and semi‐arid landscapes. Findings highlighted the role of private lands in greater sandhill crane ecology as they accounted for 78% of predicted distributions. Wetland drying observed in portions of the range from 1984 to 2022 represented an emerging ecological bottleneck that could limit future greater sandhill crane summer range. Study outcomes provide novel insight into the significance of ecosystem services provided by flood‐irrigated agriculture that supported nearly 60% of wetland resources used by birds. Findings suggest greater sandhill cranes function as a surrogate species for agroecology and climate change adaptation strategies seeking to reduce agricultural water use through improved efficiency while also maintaining distinct flood‐irrigation practices supporting greater sandhill cranes and other wetland‐dependent wildlife. We make our wetland and sandhill crane summering distributions available as interactive web‐based mapping tools to inform conservation design.
Intra‐colony spatial variance of oxyregulation and hypoxic thresholds for key Acropora coral species
Authors: Dilernia Nicole J. , Woodcock Stephen , Camp Emma F. , Hughes David J. , Kühl Michael , Suggett David J.
Published: March 2024

Oxygen (O2) availability is essential for healthy coral reef functioning, yet how continued loss of dissolved O2 via ocean deoxygenation impacts performance of reef building corals remains unclear. Here, we examine how intra‐colony spatial geometry of important Great Barrier Reef (GBR) coral species Acropora may influence variation in hypoxic thresholds for upregulation, to better understand capacity to tolerate future reductions in O2 availability. We first evaluate the application of more streamlined models used to parameterise Hypoxia Response Curve data, models that have been used historically to identify variable oxyregulatory capacity. Using closed‐system respirometry to analyse O2 drawdown rate, we show that a two‐parameter model returns similar outputs as previous 12th‐order models for descriptive statistics such as the average oxyregulation capacity (Tpos) and the ambient O2 level at which the coral exerts maximum regulation effort (Pcmax), for diverse Acropora species. Following an experiment to evaluate whether stress induced by coral fragmentation for respirometry affected O2 drawdown rate, we subsequently identify differences in hypoxic response for the interior and exterior colony locations for the species Acropora abrotanoides, Acropora cf. microphthalma and Acropora elseyi. Average regulation capacity across species was greater (0.78–1.03 ± SE 0.08) at the colony interior compared with exterior (0.60–0.85 ± SE 0.08). Moreover, Pcmax occurred at relatively low pO2 of <30% (±1.24; SE) air saturation for all species, across the colony. When compared against ambient O2 availability, these factors corresponded to differences in mean intra‐colony oxyregulation, suggesting that lower variation in dissolved O2 corresponds with higher capacity for oxyregulation. Collectively, our data show that intra‐colony spatial variation affects coral oxyregulation hypoxic thresholds, potentially driving differences in Acropora oxyregulatory capacity.
Microplastic and nanoplastic debris left behind by a plastic water tank subjected to a mimicked bushfire
Authors: Luo Yunlong , Gibson Christopher T. , Tang Youhong , Zhang Xian , Naidu Ravi , Fang Cheng
Published: March 2024

Little is known about the catastrophic bushfire from a micro‐pollution point of view, and there is also very limited understanding of the emerging contamination of microplastics and nanoplastics. Upon exposure to fire, plastic items, such as water tanks, may release a substantial quantity of microplastics and nanoplastics, as characterized in this study through the analysis of residual debris. Using Raman imaging with the scanning pixel size down to 100 nm × 100 nm, we over‐scan the sample surface to collect a hyperspectral matrix. In order to map and convert the scanning hyperspectral matrix to an image, we compare and advance the chemometrics of algorithms, including logic and principal component analysis (PCA), to extract the weak signal of microplastics and particularly nanoplastics, which enables us to directly visualize the different degrees of burning. By doing so, we can identify the microplastics and nanoplastics down to ˜100 nm, which means that we can break through the diffraction limit of the laser which is ˜296 nm (λ/2NA) to capture nanoplastics. Using statistical analysis, we estimate that 1.4–4.7 million micro‐ and nanoplastics per cm2 can be left behind by the mimicked‐bushfire‐burned plastic tank. This study suggests that bushfire can accelerate the release of micro‐ and nanoplastics in the environment. This study not only contributes essential insights into the micro‐pollution consequences of fire burning but also underscores the urgency of addressing this understudied aspect to inform environmental conservation strategies and public health measures.
Isoleucine‐restricted diets improve high‐fat diet‐induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease via regulating insulin resistance and gut microbiota
Authors: Zhou Xing , Hao Rili , Zhu Xiangyang , Tan Xintong , Li Dapeng
Published: March 2024

Obesity, caused by a long‐term high‐fat diet, is a risk factor for insulin resistance and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The gut microbiota plays an important role in NAFLD development by producing lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Isoleucine (ILE), as one of the branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs), has a negative effect on glucose and lipid metabolism in obese mice. Therefore, we speculated that isoleucine‐restricted diets could prevent high‐fat diet‐induced insulin resistance and NAFLD. For this purpose, 30 C57BL/6J mice received a control check diet (CK), a high‐fat diet (HFD), and a isoleucine‐restricted diet (IR) for 12 weeks, respectively. The current study revealed that IR diets reversed HFD‐induced weight gain, increased fasting glucose levels, and lipid metabolism disorder. Furthermore, IR diets attenuated HFD‐induced hepatic inflammation by regulating the LPS/TLR4/NF‐κB signaling pathway. Moreover, hepatic insulin resistance and gluconeogenesis disorder were significantly improved by IR diets. In addition, IR diets reshaped HFD‐induced gut microbiota imbalance, reflected in decreasing the proportion of Proteobacteria phylum and LPS contents. Taken together, our studies support that restricting isoleucine in high‐fat diets was a novel means of preventing obesity‐induced NAFLD and insulin resistance.
Functional instant noodle formulation for emergency conditions: Sensory and stability characteristics
Authors: Shahabinejad Farboud , Ghorbani Maryam , Abbaszadeh Sepideh , Nejatian Mohammad , Taghdir Maryam
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the shelf‐life and sensory characteristics of a functional instant noodle preparation designed to be used in emergencies as a tactical ration. Instant noodles were selected for their global acceptability and ease of preparation. In this study, semolina flour was used as the main ingredient, and soy protein isolate was added to increase the protein content. Additionally, green tea and beef tallow were incorporated to decrease the likelihood of oxidation. Carboxymethyl cellulose was added to increase the porosity and water absorption of the dry noodles. Spirulina powder was used as a dressing for the final product before serving to increase the nutritional value and provide the consumer with the required vitamins and minerals of the day. Physical, chemical, and organoleptic properties were assessed at multiple timepoints in a 120‐day period to perform an accelerated shelf‐life test by determining their critical moisture content and moisture sorption isotherm curves at 30, 45, and 55°C. The shelf‐life of the product was evaluated to be 1197.28 days at 30°C and 75% relative humidity in aluminum pouches. In conclusion, the product is shelf‐stable at room temperature and is recommended to be stored and used in disaster conditions such as earthquakes, floods, and wars.
Efficacy and safety of everolimus plus exemestane in patients with hormone receptor‐positive, HER‐2‐negative advanced breast cancer: Results from the open‐label, multicentre, non‐interventional BRAWO study
Authors: Lüftner Diana , Schuetz Florian , Schneeweiss Andreas , Hartkopf Andreas , Bloch Wilhelm , Decker Thomas , Uleer Christoph , Stötzer Oliver , Foerster Frank , Schmidt Marcus , Mundhenke Christoph , Tesch Hans , Jackisch Christian , Fischer Thomas , Kreuzeder Julia , Guderian Gernot , Fasching Peter A.
Published: March 2024

BRAWO, a real‐world study, assessed the efficacy, quality of life (QoL) and safety of EVE + EXE in postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2– advanced breast cancer (ABC) in routine clinical practice. Postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2‐ABC with recurrence or progression after a NSAI were included. Primary Observation parameters included the evaluation of the effectiveness of EVE + EXE. A multivariate‐analysis using Cox proportional hazard model was built to identify predictors of progression. Overall, 2100 patients were enrolled (August 2012–December 2017); 2074 were evaluable for efficacy and safety analyses. Majority of patients (60.6%) received EVE + EXE as first (28.7%) or second‐line (31.9%) therapy. Visceral metastases were present in 54.1% patients. Median progression‐free survival (mPFS) reported as 6.6 months (95%CI: 6.3–7.0). Multivariate‐analysis in a subset of patients (n = 1837) found higher body mass index (BMI) and non‐visceral metastases to be independent predictors of favorable PFS. Patients with a BMI of 20 to <25 had a mPFS of 6.0 (95%CI: 5.4–6.4) and those with a BMI ≥30 had mPFS of 8.5 (95%CI: 6.9–9.9). 41.2% patients achieved stable disease and 7.3% partial response. No major changes were observed QoL; 86.4% patients received stomatitis prophylaxis and 41.4% experienced EVE related AEs of stomatitis, mainly low grade. AEs occurred in 91.2% of patients, of which stomatitis (42.6%) and fatigue (19.8%) were most frequent. The BRAWO study provides real‐world evidence of efficacy and safety of EVE + EXE in patients with HR+, HER2− ABC. A high BMI and the absence of visceral metastases were independent predictors of PFS in this cohort of patients.
New energetic 1,2,4‐triazole‐nitrofuroxan hybrids
Authors: Larin Alexander A. , Dubasova Ekaterina V. , Ananyev Ivan V. , Monogarov Konstantin A. , Gazieva Galina A. , Fershtat Leonid L.
Published: March 2024

New promising energetic materials comprised of 1,2,4‐triazole and furoxan rings and bearing explosophoric nitro group were rationally designed and synthesized. All newly prepared compounds were thoroughly characterized and their physicochemical properties were estimated. In the newly synthesized series, (1,2,4‐triazolyl)furoxan 4 is completely insensitive to impact and friction and possesses good detonation performance (D = 8.4 km s−1; P = 33 GPa) enabling its further exploration as a promising high‐energy material.
The expression analysis of human endogenous retrovirus‐K Env, Np9, and Rec transcripts in cervical cancer
Authors: Soleimani‐Jelodar Rahim , Arashkia Arash , Shoja Zabihollah , Akhavan Setareh , Yarandi Fariba , Sharifian Kimia , Farahmand Mohammad , Nili Fatemeh , Jalilvand Somayeh
Published: March 2024

While infection with high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types is necessary for cervical cancer (CC) development, it is not enough, and other risk factors are required. Several studies have reported the activation of HERV‐K in different cancers; however, the investigation of HERV‐K expression levels in CC is scarce. In this study, it was hypothesized that activation of HERV‐K could play an essential role in CC development. In this order, the expression levels of HERV‐K Env, Np9, and Rec transcripts were investigated on 147 normal to CC uterine cervical tissues using quantitative real‐time PCR. The significantly higher levels of HERV‐K Env and Np9 transcripts were found in patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) II−III and CC groups compared to those in the normal/CIN I group. Expression of Rec transcript was also higher only in the CC group than normal/CIN I group. Among CC patients, meaningfully higher levels of HERV‐K Env and Np9 transcripts were found in patients with squamous cell carcinoma rather than in adenocarcinoma. When only the HPV 16 positive samples were investigated, it was found that the mean difference in Env and Np9 mRNA levels was meaningfully higher among precancer lesions and the cancer group in comparison with the normal group. However, the Rec mRNA level showed no significant differences. The association between the expression of HERV‐K genes was investigated, and a significant positive correlation of Env expression with Np9 transcript was found only in the group with precancer lesions (R = 0.6, p = 0.0037). Moreover, a significant positive correlation was found between Rec and Np9 transcripts in patients with normal cervix tissues (R = 0.26, p = 0.033). However, no correlations were observed between the expression of Env and Rec in the three groups. In conclusion, our results showed that HERV‐K transcripts, especially Env and Np9, upregulated during cervical lesion progression. These findings highlight the potential use of HERV‐K Env and Np9 as biomarkers for CC diagnosis and prognosis. Further investigation is needed to determine the clinical utility of these markers and whether targeting HERV‐K oncogenes could be a viable therapeutic strategy for CC.
Effects of acidification by traditional Jiaozi starter and neutralization with alkali (Na2CO3) on whole wheat dough properties
Authors: Li Zhijian , Cao Yu , Zhou Mengmeng
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Whole wheat steamed bread has been recommended for its potential nutritional benefits to human health. Given the positive role of both organic acid and alkali in improving dough development and product quality, the present study investigated the effects of neutralization by addition of alkali (Na2CO3) after dough acidification with traditional Jiaozi starter on the properties of whole wheat dough.

RESULTS

The population of yeast and lactic acid bacteria and the acidification level of the dough increased significantly after fermentation with Jiaozi. Incorporation of alkali greatly improved the leavening capacity of the remixed dough and the quality of steamed bread. Jiaozi fermentation and alkali addition changed the water distribution patterns (T2) and affected the secondary structures of gluten protein, starch crystallinity and pasting properties. The storage modulus (G') of the dough increased significantly with the alkali addition, which could be attributed to the promoted cross‐linking of the gluten structure and the altered hydration state of the macromolecules.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study indicate that a combination of Jiaozi fermentation and alkali addition could improve the technological properties of whole wheat dough and the quality of steamed bread. The results will help us to further explore the potential application of moderate acidification and alkali addition in the production of leavened whole wheat products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A potential novel technique for measurement of pulp volume on periapical radiography: A pilot study
Authors: Şatır Samed , Özel Şelale , Orhan Kaan
Published: March 2024

Pulp volume can be assessed during dental treatment. Three‐dimensional imaging techniques are not routinely used for this purpose because of high radiation doses. This study aimed to develop a novel method to measure pulp volume using periapical radiography. In this study, cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used as a reference method. Periapical radiography and CBCTs obtained from the same patients (n = 32) were recorded. Pulp volume was determined by observing the density differences between the pulp and peripheral structures using ImageJ. A method of graph and volume calculation was developed for each tooth. The Shapiro–Wilk test and Mann–Whitney U test were used to show normality and non‐normal distributions. The Bland–Altman plot was used to show the scattering of the mean versus difference values of the measurements of the two methods used to calculate the pulp volume. Normality was evaluated using the Shapiro–Wilk test. CBCT measurements are normally distributed (p = 0.307), while ImageJ is not normally distributed (p = 0.027). Therefore, the mean difference between the two groups was analyzed using the nonparametric Mann–Whitney U test. There was a statistically significant difference between the CBCT and ImageJ measurements (p = 0.01). According to Spearman's correlation analysis, the results obtained from the novel method were moderately correlated with those obtained from the reference method (r = 0.444). The results of this study indicated that a novel method‐based Java software can be used to calculate pulp volume using low‐dose radiation containing periapical radiography.
Warm‐adapted sponges resist thermal stress by reallocating carbon and nitrogen resources from cell turnover to somatic growth
Authors: Maggioni Federica , Raimbault Patrick , Chateau Olivier , Pujo‐Pay Mireille , Letourneur Yves , Rodolfo‐Metalpa Riccardo
Published: March 2024

Ocean warming will affect the functioning of coral reef ecosystems with unknown cascading effects. Any perturbation in the ability of sponges to recycle the dissolved organic matter released by primary producers and make it available to higher trophic levels, might have unknown consequences for the reef trophic chain. Biogeochemical processes were measured in the sponge Rhabdastrella globostellata from the semi‐enclosed lagoon of Bouraké, where temperatures reach 33.8°C and fluctuates by 6.5°C on a daily basis, and from a control reef (28°C). Using 13C‐ and 15N‐labeled coral mucus, we experimentally investigated to what extent high temperature affected the carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) resources allocation in the sponge tissue and detritus. Sponges from Bouraké maintained at 32°C incorporated more 13C‐ and 15N‐labeled coral mucus in the tissue and showed less detritus release when compared with sponges maintained at 28°C. In contrast, at 32°C control sponges showed lower 13C‐ and 15N‐labeled coral mucus incorporation in tissue and higher release of detritus. Our results suggest that sponges adapted to extreme temperatures of Bouraké were able to reallocate C and N resources from cell turnover to somatic growth and reduce tissue damage. In contrast, non‐adapted sponges at the control reef lack this mechanism and underwent tissue disintegration, highlighting the lethal effect of future warming. The change in C and N allocation in adapted sponges suggests a potential adaptation mechanism that allows R. globostellata to survive under thermal stress, but it could alter the availability of essential sources of energy with unknown consequences on the future reef trophic interactions.
A new X‐band frequency up‐converter design for LEO satellite ground station utilizing a single superheterodyne
Authors: Şişman İsmail , Ergin Tugba Haykir , Barkana Duygun Erol
Published: March 2024

In this work, the advancing wireless revolution (AWR) modeling and Microwave Office tools are used to develop and execute a broadband up‐converter system. Before sending the input frequency to the antenna interface, a radio frequency block upconverts it once to the appropriate frequency level. Mixing blocks, oscillators, amplifiers, step attenuators, isolators, and filters are included. The input frequency (IF) band is  MHz, while the output frequency (radio frequency [RF]) band is  MHz. The usage of attenuators increases the dramatic range of the circuit. It is a one‐stage up‐conversion circuit that combines the IF band in one pass to create the appropriate RF spectrum. Here, a single phase‐locked oscillator is employed at the local oscillator port of the mixers, while the other is a programmable frequency generator that generates X‐band frequency channels with a 10 MHz spacing.
The consolidation behavior of layered fractional viscoelastic soils considering groundwater
Authors: Ai Zhi Yong , Ye Zi Kun , Jiang Ming Jing , Lu Qing Song
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the consolidation behavior of multi‐layered viscoelastic soils considering groundwater. First, the fractional Merchant viscoelastic model is introduced to describe the behavior of multi‐layered viscoelastic soils considering groundwater. Later, the governing equations are extended to a viscoelastic medium by virtue of the elastic‐viscoelastic corresponding principle in the Laplace–Hankel domain. According to the extended precise integration method, the soil layer is divided into a series of layer units. Then the relationship between general stress vector and general displacement vector on the top and bottom planes is established. Every two adjacent layer units are combined into one layer in each computational iteration. The solutions in the Laplace–Hankel domain are obtained by considering the boundary conditions, and numerical inversion is performed to obtain the solutions in the physical domain. The practicability of the present method is assessed by comparing the numerical results with those in the existing literature and done by ABAQUS. Finally, the effects of groundwater table, properties of the soils above groundwater table, load depth, viscoelastic parameters, and soil stratification are investigated.
Sodium butyrate alleviates experimental autoimmune prostatitis by inhibiting oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway
Authors: Hua Xiaoliang , Zhang Jiong , Chen Juan , Feng Rui , Zhang Li , Chen Xianguo , Jiang Qing , Yang Cheng , Liang Chaozhao
Published: March 2024

Background

Chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) leads to severe discomfort in males and loss of sperm quality. Current therapeutic options have failed to achieve satisfactory results. Sodium butyrate (NaB) plays a beneficial role in reducing inflammation, increasing antioxidant capacities, and improving organ dysfunction; additionally NaB has good safety prospects and great potential for clinical application. The purpose of the current research was to study the effect of NaB on CP/CPPS and the underlying mechanisms using a mouse model of experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) mice.

Methods

The EAP mouse model was successfully established by subcutaneously injecting a mixture of prostate antigen and complete Freund's adjuvant. Then, EAP mice received daily intraperitoneal injections of NaB (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg/day) for 16 days, from Days 26 to 42. We then explored anti‐inflammatory potential mechanisms of NaB by studying the effects of Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 and HO‐1 inhibitor zinc protoporphyrin on prostate inflammation and pelvic pain using this model. On Day 42, hematoxylin‐eosin staining and dihydroethidium staining were used to evaluate the histological changes and oxidative stress levels of prostate tissues. Chronic pelvic pain was assessed by applying Von Frey filaments to the lower abdomen. The levels of inflammation‐related cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)−1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The regulation of Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway and the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome‐related protein in EAP mice were detected by western blot analysis assay.

Results

Compared with the EAP group, chronic pain development, histological manifestations, and cytokine levels showed that NaB reduced the severity of EAP. NaB treatment could inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Mechanism studies showed that NaB intervention could alleviate oxidative stress in EAP mice through Nrf2/HO‐1 signal pathway. Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway inhibitors can inhibit NaB ‐mediated oxidative stress. The inhibitory effect of NaB on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and anti‐inflammatory effect can also be blocked by Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway.

Conclusions

NaB treatment can alleviates prostatic inflammation and pelvic pain associated with EAP by inhibiting oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway. NaB has the potential as an effective agent in the treatment of EAP.
Carrier Transport Properties of the Orthorhombic Phase Boron Nitride Nanoribbons and Rectifying Device Design
Authors: Zhao Jun , Yao Can , Qi Yunxi , Zeng Hui
Published: March 2024

Using density functional theory combined with nonequilibrium Green's function, the electronic structures and carrier transport properties of the orthorhombic phase boron nitride nanoribbons (BNNRs) with different edges and different widths are investigated. The calculated results show that both armchair‐ and zigzag‐edged BNNRs are direct bandgap semiconductors. The quantum confinement gives rise to a distinct bandgap for the 1D BNNRs, and the edged atoms play an important role on their electronic structures. The bandgaps of the armchair‐edged BNNRs approach 0.5–0.8 eV when their widths are sufficiently large. However, the electronic structures of the zigzag‐edged BNNRs exhibit more variations dependent on their edged atoms. The J–V characteristics of the BNNRs reveal that the zigzag‐edged BNNRs have superior J–V performance to that of the armchair‐edged counterparts. Eventually, a computational nanodevice design is proposed to achieve rectifying behavior by constructing an in‐plane heterojunction based on the BNNRs without any doping, and the left and right electrodes are formed by differently edged atoms and a small strain is performed on the left electrode. The rectification ratio of about 77.36 is realized. The findings provide comprehensive understandings of the orthorhombic BN monolayer, which can be helpful to its potential application for nanoelectronics.
Robust stability analysis for uncertain systems with time‐varying delay via variable augmentation approach
Authors: Zhou Xi‐Zi , An Jianqi , He Yong
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the problem of robust stability analysis for systems with time‐delays and time‐varying structured uncertainties. The variable augmentation approach and the free‐matrix‐based inequality are employed to retain the linear property of the estimation of the derivative of the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals. Moreover, with the use of the variable augmentation approach related to the time‐varying structured uncertainties, the time‐varying S‐Procedure combined with the time‐varying delay and its derivative is employed. As a result, less‐conservative robust stability conditions are derived. In addition, the merits of the augmentation of the time‐varying structured uncertainties over the traditional methods are theoretically demonstrated. Finally, two numerical examples are given to verify the benefits of the proposed methods.
A Note on Homelessness and the Moral Economy: How Thompson's Moral Economy Presents in Modern Day Homelessness
Authors: Werman Sarah
Published: March 2024

In this research note, I propose a theoretical framework that centers class struggle in order to better understand the micro‐level interactions that take place within homeless communities and the systems that structure them. I suggest that researchers can gain clearer insights into marginalized communities by taking a radical interactionist approach, as described by Athens. To start, I propose revisiting classic theories emphasizing the impact of power and dominance in the development of social systems as ways to understand interpersonal social interactions. Specifically, in this note I propose revisiting E.P. Thompson's original theory of the moral economy as an analytical basis and grounding point in the effort to explore homelessness and the communities it creates. Thompson's moral economy suggests that in communities facing oppression and class struggle, an economic and social system develops in which the central tenant is fairness and morality. By revisiting this theory, I suggest that researchers may better understand the ways in which homeless communities structure themselves, not only in relation to one another, but also in relation to the broader social world around them.
Using FRET to Determine How Myo10 Responds to Force in Filopodia
Authors: Parker Francine , Chuntharpursat-Bon Eulashini , Molloy Justin E. , Peckham Michelle
Published: March 2024

Myosin 10 (Myo10) is an actin-based molecular motor that is essential for filopodia formation and likely senses tension through interactions with integrins in filopodial tips. It possesses a single α-helical (SAH) domain at the end of its canonical lever, which amplifies the movement of the motor. We have shown the SAH domain can contribute to lever function and possesses the properties of a constant force spring. Here we investigate whether the SAH domain plays a role in tension sensing and whether it becomes extended under load at the filopodial tip. Previously, we found that removing the entire SAH domain and short anti-parallel coiled coil (CC) region at the C-terminal end of the SAH does not prevent Myo10 from moving to filopodial tips in cells. Exploiting this, we generated recombinant forms of Myo10, in which a tension-sensing module (TSMod), comprising a FRET-pair YPet and mCherry separated by a linker sequence of amino acids was then inserted between the Myo10 motor and tail domains, so as to replace the SAH domain and CC region. The linker sequence comprised either a portion of the native SAH domain, or control sequences that were either short (x1: stiff) or long (x5: flexible) repeats of “GPGGA”. As additional controls we also placed the TSMod construct at the N-terminus, where it should not experience force. Our FRET measurements indicate that the SAH domain of Myo10 may become extended at when the protein is stalled at the filopodial tips, so the SAH domain may therefore act as a force sensor.
Motivation, Segregation, and Responsibility: The Challenges in Our Way to Grow Equal Citizens in a Democracy
Authors: Bar-Hanan Etai
Published: March 2024

Democratic education prepares students to live in a democratic society: a community of equal citizens who have rights and an impact on the public sphere. A democratic public school provides students with a sense of ownership and responsibility over the country, develops understanding and empathy towards the other, and convinces its students of their power to influence the reality in their society.
Mission Hill School: Fostering Creative Storytelling Through Democratic Learning
Authors: Lewis Carolyn Shadid , Lewis Selma , Meier Deborah
Published: March 2024

Mission Hill School (MHS) was a democratically run, thematic, project-based school in Boston. Founding member Deborah Meier provides an introduction to a mother and daughter’s personal narrative of their time at the school. Boston Public Schools closed MHS in 2022.
The Seychelles National Youth Service (NYS): Fragments, Thoughts and Reflections on an Experiment in Democratic Education
Authors: Murray Simon
Published: March 2024

Reflections on the early years of the Seychelles National Youth Service (NYS) and its aspirations and practices.
Baxter Academy for Technology and Science: An Innovative STEM School that Embraces Its Enduring Tensions
Authors: Po Cicy
Published: March 2024

A STEM high school educates wielders of the most powerful tools used to change the face of our Earth, the genetics of our biosphere, and the broadening of time through acceleration of information systems. This education is necessary for a democracy that is just and equitable.
MATTERS: Laying Groundwork for Creative Practice Rooted in Ecological and Social Awareness, Repair, and Care
Authors: Pomerantz Kaitlin
Published: March 2024

MATTERS is a site-focused arts education program connecting art and design learners to materials and materials to land and labor. The objective of MATTERS is to lay the groundwork for a creative practice rooted in ecological and social awareness, repair, and care. The programming abides by democratic standards of co-creation, collaboration, and working toward the common good by uncovering and solving crucial problems in creative industries today. MATTERS works with existing secondary and higher education arts and design schools and programs.

For art and design education in higher education/high school in the US, democratic education means engaging ethically with structures of ecology and labor that surround creative practice and material usage.
The Globe School
Authors: Micci Elizabeth
Published: March 2024

Democratic education fosters agency and ownership of the learning experience in each individual student. The school model proposed in this chapter offers theater as a vehicle for creating a holistic, inclusive approach to teaching and learning across content areas.