bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Multi‐Model Approach for Attention Prediction in Gaming Environments for Autistic Children
Authors: Valarmathi P. , Packialatha A.
Published: January 2025

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition that affects an individual's mental development. This research work implements a multimodality input‐based virtual reality (VR)‐enabled attention prediction approach in gaming for children with autism. Initially, the multimodal inputs such as face image, electroencephalogram (EEG) signal, and data are individually processed by both the preprocessing and feature extraction procedures. Subsequently, a hybrid classification model with classifiers such as improved deep convolutional neural network (IDCNN) and long short term memory (LSTM) is utilized in expression detection by concatenating the resultant features obtained from the feature extraction procedure. Here, the conventional deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) approach is improved by a novel block‐knowledge‐based processing with a proposed sine‐hinge loss function. Finally, an improved weighted mutual information process is employed in attention prediction. Moreover, this proposed attention prediction model is analyzed by simulation and experimental analyses. The effectiveness of the proposed model is significantly proved by the experimental results obtained from various analyses.
Silencing of O‐GlcNAc transferase attenuated O‐GlcNAcylation and metastatic potentials of melanoma cells through suppression of Akt‐NFkB signaling pathway
Authors: Kanchanangkul Nopkamol , Panawan Orasa , Teeravirote Karuntarat , Ma-In Prasertsri , Mahalapbutr Panupong , Luang Sukanya , Seubwai Wunchana , Lert-itthiporn Worachart , Kaewkong Worasak , Vaeteewoottacharn Kulthida , Wongkham Sopit , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Silsirivanit Atit
Published: January 2025

O‐GlcNAcylation is an important biological process in regulating the function of many nucleocytoplasmic proteins in cells.  Enhancement of O‐GlcNAcylation was associated with cancer development and progression.  Here, we demonstrated the involvement of O‐GlcNAcylation in melanoma metastasis.  Using the data from GEO database, we found that O‐GlcNAcylation and its related enzymes, including glutamine fructose‐6‐phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT), O‐GlcNAc transferase (OGT), and O‐GlcNAcase (OGA); were elevated in metastatic melanoma compared with primary tumors and normal tissues.  Functional analyses in melanoma cell lines‐‐MNT‐1, SK‐MEL‐28, and A‐375 showed that suppression of O‐GlcNAcylation by siRNA against OGT significantly reduces the migration and invasion abilities of the cells.  Phosphorylation of Akt and NFkB was drastically suppressed after knockdown of OGT, suggesting the role of O‐GlcNAcylation in regulating the Akt‐NFkB signaling pathway.  In addition, we found that the NFkB target genes, such as ZEB‐2 and MCT‐1, were significantly upregulated in metastatic tumors compared with primary tumors.  MCT‐1 expression in melanoma tissues was also correlated with O‐GlcNAcylation level.  Taken together, we have demonstrated in this study the possible role of O‐GlcNAcylation in controlling melanoma metastasis via upregulating MCT‐1 expression through activation of Akt‐NFkB signaling pathway.
Copper Depletion in Tumors Boosts Immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Yuge , Nafees Muhammad , Hanif Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Copper depletion is being billed as a viable approach for cancer treatment. Vittorio and co‐workers successfully demonstrated that Cuprior, an FDA‐approved drug that binds with copper, effectively enhances anti‐GD2 immunotherapy and improves the responses for neuroblastoma patients. These findings highlight the important role of copper chelation in modulating the tumor microenvironment. This study presented a novel approach to potentiate immunotherapies for neuroblastoma patients, warranting further investigations into copper depletion as a potential adjuvant therapy for other tumors.
Experimentelle Untersuchung zum Brechen und Trennen von Kakaobohnen
Authors: Lörcher Marc , Steinke Philipp , Grimm Philipp , Spiller Björn , Kwade Arno
Published: January 2025

Die Entschalung von Kakaobohnen wird durch die drei mechanischen Grundoperationen Brechen, Sieben und Sichten realisiert. Bei der August Storck KG werden unterschiedliche Anlagen für den Entschalungsprozess eingesetzt. In der folgenden Arbeit werden zwei Anlagen hinsichtlich der verfahrenstechnischen Prozesse analysiert, gegenübergestellt und die jeweiligen Vor‐ und Nachteile erläutert. Der Erfolg der Entschalungsanlagen wird über zwei Qualitätsgrößen bestimmt: Der Schalenanteil im Produktstrom dient der Qualitätsbewertung und der Nibanteil (als Nibanteil werden zerkleinerte Kakaokerne ohne Schale bezeichnet, die in geringen Mengen im Schalenstrom enthalten sind) im Schalenstrom ist ein Maß für die Ausbeute und die Wirtschaftlichkeit.
Direct Air Capture via Counter‐Current NaOH Absorption System: Evolution of pH for Subsequent Plasma‐Enhanced CO₂ Utilization
Authors: Seithümmer Valentin Benedikt , Dubiel Christoph , Kaufmann Samuel Jaro , Chinnaraj Haripriya , Rößner Paul , Birke Kai Peter
Published: January 2025

Direct air capture (DAC) technologies offer a promising approach to mitigate anthropogenic climate change by enabling net negative emissions. CO2 absorption using NaOH represents an efficient solution within the proposed BlueFire carbon cycle, which integrates DAC with plasma technology for syngas production. Optimizing a DAC plant control relies on understanding the pH profile as a key parameter. A bubble column absorption model with pure CO2 was experimentally adapted for a counter‐current flow setup with ambient air, reproducing a staged pH decrease. An optimal absorption endpoint was determined by identifying the maximum slope of the pH decline, indicating high reaction progress. X‐ray diffraction analysis of the absorption products validated the theoretical model of carbonate formation.
EMDR Interventions in Refugees and Asylum Seekers: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Antuña‐Camblor Celia , Hernández Víctor Tejedor
Published: January 2025

Both refugees and asylum seekers exhibit poorer mental health and higher rates of mental disorders, particularly posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for which EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective. This review analyses the efficacy of EMDR in reducing PTDS in refugees or asylum seekers using randomized controlled studies (RCTs). A systematic review and meta‐analysis published in PROSPERO (CRD42024595506) using the databases PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science were conducted. The authors independently reviewed the articles to maintain double blind. A total of 10 articles met the criteria for inclusion. The analysis of these studies revealed that a nonsignificant effect of EMDR on PTSD symptoms was observed at the end of the intervention period and the effect sizes reflect interaction effects between treatment/control over time on outcome, and these represent changes over time. It should be interpreted with awareness of the potential limitations introduced by excluding other study designs due to heterogeneity.
Toward Developing Alternative Opioid Antagonists for Treating Community Overdose: A Model‐Based Evaluation of Important Pharmacological Attributes
Authors: Chaturbedi Anik , Mann John , Chakravartula Shilpa , Thrasher Bradlee , Arabidarrehdor Ghazal , Zirkle Joel , Meshkin Hamed , Nallani Srikanth C. , Florian Jeffry , Li Zhihua
Published: January 2025

In response to increased illicit use of synthetic opioids, various μ‐receptor antagonist formulations, with varied pharmacological characteristics, have been and are being developed. To understand how pharmacologic characteristics such as absorption rate and clearance rate affect reversal in treating community opioid overdose, we used our previously published translational opioid model. We adapted this model with in vitro receptor binding data and clinical pharmacokinetic data of three intranasal nalmefene formulations along with an intranasal naloxone formulation to study the reversal of fentanyl and carfentanil‐induced respiratory depression in chronic opioid users. Nalmefene has a longer plasma half‐life and slower unbinding from the μ‐receptor compared to naloxone. For a more rapid reversal of acute overdose‐induced respiratory depression, a fast‐absorbing antagonist formulation may be of greater utility than a slow‐absorbing one containing the same dosage of the antagonist. For preventing renarcotization caused by a long opioid exposure, a slow‐clearing antagonist with slow unbinding from the receptor may be of value. While a more potent antagonist with a longer half‐life may have the potential to facilitate recovery from respiratory depression for overdose with synthetic opioids, such interventions may also lead to longer and more pronounced withdrawal. This emphasizes the need for a nuanced consideration of several facets while choosing a μ‐receptor antagonist, dose, and formulation to treat community opioid overdose cases.
Administration Studies in Equine Antidoping Research: Designing Scientific Investigations to Effectively Direct Medication Control in Racehorses
Authors: Knych Heather K.
Published: January 2025

Pharmacokinetics is the study of the movement of drug in the body and includes the processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Pharmacodynamics is the pharmacologic effect of the drug on the body. The pharmacokinetics of a drug determines its pharmacologic effect. Pharmacokinetic studies describe drug concentrations while pharmacodynamics allow for assessment of drug effects. Combined pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies allow for integration of drug concentrations with pharmacologic effect. Data generated from pharmacokinetic studies can be especially useful in establishing regulatory recommendations, determining appropriate thresholds, screening limits, administrative stand down times, and corresponding detection times. To generate the appropriate information, the following must be considered (1) the test subjects (i.e., number, age, breed, and fitness level), (2) selection of an appropriate dose/route and duration of administration, (3) sample matrix (blood, urine, and hair), (4) time(s) of sample collection, (5) development of an analytical method with appropriate sensitivity, and (6) what analytes to measure (parent and/or metabolite). Pharmacokinetic studies generate drug concentration data that can be used to calculate key pharmacokinetic variables necessary for establishing screening levels and detection times. Pharmacodynamic assessments can aid in understanding the pharmacologic effects of drugs and in correlating drug concentrations to these effects. Various models, including in vivo (whole animal), in vitro, and ex vivo assessments, can be utilized to determine pharmacodynamic effects. Factors to consider in the design of pharmacokinetic studies, basic pharmacokinetic parameters, and examples of pharmacodynamic assessments will be discussed in detail during this tutorial.
Effects of Urbanization on Ventral Patch Size and Phenotypic Correlates of Patch Expression in Male Western Fence Lizards (Sceloporus occidentalis)
Authors: Putman Breanna J. , Stevens Bayley , Fresco Nina A. , Urquidi Emily R.
Published: January 2025

In some animals, males use colorful ornaments or badges to visually communicate with conspecifics. These traits can be condition‐dependent, suggesting that environmental changes could impact the intensity of male sexual signals. Drastic habitat changes caused by urbanization can act as physiological stressors, potentially affecting male signaling traits through changes to condition or immune function. Here, we quantified the effects of urbanization on ventral patch size and correlates of patch expression, namely body size, body condition, corticosterone concentrations, and ectoparasites in male Western Fence Lizards (Sceloporus occidentalis). We compared three aspects of male ventral color patches between urban and natural populations: area of the throat patch, total area of the paired belly patches, and total area of the black borders of the belly patches. All three area measurements across both habitat types were positively related to body size, and total belly patch area was positively related to body condition, indicating that these traits may signal male competitive ability and/or quality. Males from urban populations had larger throat patches than those from natural populations after controlling for body size. This difference in patch size was associated with a difference in probability of ectoparasite infection, but not with differences in corticosterone concentrations or body condition between urban and natural populations. Our results may indicate an effect of urbanization on immune function affecting male patch expression, although this idea remains untested. Overall, we show that urbanization can impact male sexual traits, which may have repercussions for visual communication in urban environments.
Resistance and Resilience of Species Composition: Thirty Years of Experimental Mismanagement and Subsequent Restoration in a Species Rich Meadow
Authors: Lepš Jan , Lisner Aleš
Published: January 2025

Traditionally managed grasslands are among the most species‐rich communities, which are threatened by land use changes—management intensification or abandonment. The resistance of their species composition to mismanagement and ability to recover after re‐establishment of traditional management is of prime conservational interest. In a manipulative experiment in a wet meadow, we simulated mismanagement by a factorial combination of abandonment of mowing and fertilization. The dominant species Molinia caerulea was removed in half of the plots to assess its role in community dynamics. The 21 years' mismanagement period was followed by the re‐establishment of the traditional management. The plots were sampled yearly from 1994 (the baseline data, before the introduction of the experimental treatments), until 2023. Estimates of cover of all vascular plant species provided the species richness and effective number of species. For each year, the chord distances to baseline species composition and to corresponding control plot were calculated. The compositional data were analyzed by constrained ordination methods, and the univariate characteristics by Repeated Measures ANOVA. All the plots, including those with traditional management throughout the whole experiment, underwent directional changes, probably caused by a decrease in groundwater level due to global warming. Both fertilization and abandonment led to a loss of competitively weak, usually low‐statured species, due to increased asymmetric competition for light. The effect of fertilization was faster and stronger than that of abandonment demonstrating weaker resistance to fertilization. The removal of dominant species partially mitigated negative effects only in unmown, non‐fertilized plots. The recovery following mismanagement cessation was faster (signifying higher resilience) in unmown than in fertilized plots, where it was slowed by a legacy of fertilization. In a changing world, two reference plot types are recommended for assessment of resistance and resilience, one original state and one reflecting compositional changes independent of treatments.
Enhanced Thomson and Unusual Nernst Coefficients in 1T‐TiSe2 Due to Bipolar Transport and CDW Phase Transition
Authors: Akhanda Md Sabbir , Dharmasiri Kusal Sachithra , Das Sree Sourav , Louca Despina , Zebarjadi Mona
Published: January 2025

Thermoelectric coolers utilizing the Peltier effect have dominated the field of solid‐state cooling but their efficiency is hindered by material limitations. Alternative routes based on the Thomson and Nernst effects offer new possibilities. Here, we present a comprehensive investigation of the thermoelectric properties of 1T‐TiSe2, focusing on these effects around the charge density wave transition (≈200 K). The abrupt Fermi surface reconstruction associated with this transition leads to an exceptional peak in the Thomson coefficient of 450 μV K−1 at 184 K, surpassing the Seebeck coefficient. Furthermore, 1T‐TiSe2 exhibits a remarkably broad temperature range (170–400 K) with a Thomson coefficient exceeding 190 μV K−1, a characteristic highly desirable for the development of practical Thomson coolers with extended operational ranges. Additionally, the Nernst coefficient exhibits an unusual temperature dependence, increasing with temperature in the normal phase, which we attribute to bipolar conduction effects. The combination of solid–solid pure electronic phase transition to a semimetallic phase with bipolar transport is identified as responsible for the unusual Nernst trend and the unusually large Thomson coefficient over a broad temperature range.
Experimental Modeling of Wind Resources for Electricity Generation in the Ningo‐Prampram Region of Ghana
Authors: Ami Johannes , Fanyin‐Martin Ato , Asamoah John Stephen , Asiedu Nana Yaw , Amponsem Bright , Kwofie Matthew
Published: January 2025

Wind energy, as a renewable energy source, plays a critical role in achieving the world's energy transition goals. This study assesses the wind resource characteristics and potential for wind power production in the Ningo‐Prampram District of Ghana. On‐site wind measurements were conducted using an air flow anemometer at various reference points within the study area. The collected site data were statistically validated against existing satellite data using T‐test analysis, which revealed no significant difference between the ground and satellite measurements (p > 0.05), despite observed changes in weather patterns. The results showed that the mean wind speed in the area ranged between 4 and 5.6 m/s at a height of 10 m, with a predominant wind direction from the East. The district exhibited a moderate turbulence intensity of 0.226, indicating fairly good suitability for wind power projects. A feasibility analysis determined that the study area, covering 142.03 km², has the potential to accommodate a 40 MW wind farm using 20 Enercon‐82‐E2 wind turbines (2 MW each) with an 80 m hub height. This installation could reduce Ghana's Wind Utility Scale total target for 2030 by 25.256%. These findings suggest that the Ningo‐Prampram District possesses favorable conditions for sustainable wind power development.
Pattern Separation and Pattern Completion Within the Hippocampal Circuit During Naturalistic Stimuli
Authors: Sun Lili , Li Siyang , Ren Peng , Liu Qiuyi , Li Zhipeng , Liang Xia
Published: January 2025

Pattern separation and pattern completion in the hippocampus play a critical role in episodic learning and memory. However, there is limited empirical evidence supporting the role of the hippocampal circuit in these processes during complex continuous experiences. In this study, we analyzed high‐resolution fMRI data from the “Forrest Gump” open‐access dataset (16 participants) using a sliding‐window temporal autocorrelation approach to investigate whether the canonical hippocampal circuit (DG‐CA3‐CA1‐SUB) shows evidence consistent with the occurrence of pattern separation or pattern completion during a naturalistic audio movie task. Our results revealed that when processing continuous naturalistic stimuli, the DG‐CA3 pair exhibited evidence consistent with the occurrence of the pattern separation process, whereas both the CA3‐CA1 and CA1‐SUB pairs showed evidence consistent with pattern completion. Moreover, during the latter half of the audio movie, we observed evidence consistent with a reduction in pattern completion in the CA3‐CA1 pair and an increase in pattern completion in the CA1‐SUB pair. Overall, these findings improve our understanding of the evidence related to the occurrence of pattern separation and pattern completion processes during natural experiences.
Synthesis of α‐Fluoroketones from Carboxylic Acids via Decarboxylation of Fluorinated Malonates
Authors: Davenport Raffael , Cibiras Rolandas , Schäfer Gabriel
Published: January 2025

α‐Fluoroketones are versatile intermediates for the synthesis of fluorinated heterocycles and other fluorine‐containing building blocks. We have recently disclosed a novel route to such an α‐fluoroketone using the corresponding benzoic acid as a starting material. The reaction sequence started with the CDI‐activation of the carboxylic acid and reaction with diethyl malonate, fluorination of the resulting acyl malonate with Selectfluor, and finally a double‐decarboxylation to provide the desired α‐fluoroketone in 73 % yield over three telescoped steps. We were interested in the generality of this approach to access α‐fluoroketones from readily available carboxylic acids. In this article, we disclose the crucial modifications of the reaction conditions that were needed to make them broadly applicable to a diverse array of carboxylic acids. Under the optimized conditions, a wide range of α‐fluoroketones were isolated in good to excellent yields and in high purity.
Ambient PM25 Plus High‐Fat Diet Exacerbated Kidney Injury in Mice by Activating Ferroptosis Mediated TGF‐β1/Smad2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhu Yingling , Jiang Jinjin , Zhou Lina , Zhuang Xun
Published: January 2025

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is on the rise globally, posing a significant public health concern. Numerous studies have indicated that the consumption of a high‐fat diet (HFD) can lead to renal injury, a condition closely linked to CKD. Additionally, research has shown that exposure to ambient PM2.5 is associated with an increased risk of CKD, suggesting that PM2.5 may serve as an environmental risk factor for CKD. However, the synergistic impact of PM2.5 and HFD on renal injury remains poorly understood. Therefore, the objective of our study was to investigate the combined effect of PM2.5 and HFD on renal injury. Male C57BL/6J mice were subjected to a 12‐week feeding regimen of either a normal diet or a HFD, while also being exposed to either saline or ambient PM2.5 through intratracheal instillation twice a week. Evaluation of renal function demonstrated that the HFD significantly elevated levels of serum blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine. Furthermore, the combination of PM2.5 and HFD exhibited a synergistic effect, exacerbating the aforementioned indicators of kidney injury. Masson's trichrome staining revealed that both the HFD and/or PM2.5 induced renal fibrosis, with PM2.5 exacerbating the HFD‐induced renal fibrosis in the mice. In this study, Western blot analysis was conducted to examine the protein expressions of TGF‐β1 and p‐Smad2 in kidney tissues, which were found to be significantly increased in response to a HFD and/or exposure to PM2.5. Additionally, the impact of PM2.5 combined with HFD on renal ferroptosis was investigated. The results revealed that both HFD and PM2.5 led to an elevation in 4‐HNE concentration, a reduction in GSH content, a decrease in GPX4 protein expression, and an increase in ACSL4 protein expression in kidney tissues. Moreover, the combined exposure to PM2.5 and HFD exhibited a synergistic effect on GPX4 alterations in the kidney. Collectively, our findings suggest that the presence of PM2.5 exacerbates the renal injury, oxidative stress, and renal fibrosis induced by a HFD. This detrimental effect may be attributed to the activation of the ferroptosis‐mediated TGF‐β1/Smad2 signaling pathway.
Synergistic modification of Cu3V2O8 nanosheeta photoelectrodes with NiFe and NiOx for efficient and ultra‐stable photoelectrochemical water oxidation
Authors: Wang Zhiqiang , Dong Wenxuan , Su Jinzhan
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

The design and development of environmentally friendly, efficient, and stable photoelectrodes are crucial for advancing photoelectrochemical (PEC) water‐splitting technology.

RESULTS

In this study, we report a novel strategy for the preparation of copper vanadate (Cu3V2O8) nanosheet arrays using a low‐temperature solution method. Notably, this is the first instance of directly growing Cu3V2O8 nanosheet arrays on FTO (fluorine‐doped tin oxide) conductive glass. The morphology of the developed nanosheet arrays offers a larger specific surface area and improved bulk charge separation efficiency, which are desirable characteristics for PEC water‐splitting applications. To further enhance the stability and PEC performance of the Cu3V2O8 nanosheets, a synergistic modification strategy was employed. This approach involved the deposition of an NiOx passivation layer and the incorporation of an NiFe co‐catalyst. The synergistic modification strategy significantly improved the PEC performance and stability of the Cu3V2O8 nanosheet arrays. The modified photoelectrode achieved an impressive photocurrent of 0.67 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode and demonstrated stability for over 80 h of operation.

CONCLUSION

This work provides a new, low‐cost, and effective strategy for the preparation of efficient and stable photoelectrodes for PEC water splitting, which is a crucial step towards the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable energy technologies. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Evaluation of Objective Structured Clinical Examination‐assessed Competence and perceived confidence in oral surgery among final‐year undergraduate students
Authors: Albannaa Rasha , Almela Thafar
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate dental students’ competencies and self‐confidence in performing common oral surgical procedures. It further aimed to assess potential correlations among levels of competence and confidence with student gender.

Methods

Final‐year undergraduate students from Mosul Dental School in Iraq were enrolled in a summative Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) to assess their competence in core skills and knowledge in oral surgery (OS). The students were also invited to participate in the ABAOMS self‐assessment questionnaire to assess self‐perceived confidence in performing OS procedures. Gender correlation with competence and confidence was computed via the Pearson Chi‐square test (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

A total of 272 students were evaluated for OS competence. Students’ highest competence was in dental anatomy (91.1%), while history‐taking and tooth extraction scored the highest failure levels (56.1%) and (39.1%), respectively. For self‐confidence, students felt adequately prepared to carry out several clinical procedures although they indicated low confidence in performing minimally practiced procedures. No significant correlation was detected in the total confidence versus competence except for the management of post‐extraction complications. Results also showed no significant correlation between students’ competence‐confidence‐gender; except for the administration of local anesthesia among females (p‐value 0.007 ≤0.01).

Conclusion

The findings of this study show that the competence and self‐perceived confidence of final‐year students were generally satisfactory for a range of clinical and affective skills. However, several areas of weakness were identified which underscore the need for modification of the current curriculum to improve the preparedness of undergraduate dental students as safe beginners in OS.
Benefits of HIV‐1 transmission cluster surveillance: a French retrospective observational study of the molecular and epidemiological co‐evolution of recent circulating recombinant forms 94 and 132
Authors: Wirden Marc , Tombette Fabienne , Lambert‐Niclot Sidonie , Chaix Marie‐Laure , Marque‐Juillet Stéphanie , Bouvier‐Alias Magali , Roquebert Benedicte , Machado Moise , Avettand‐Fenoel Veronique , Gantner Pierre , Alidjinou Enagnon Kazali , Stefic Karl , Plantier Jean‐Christophe , Calvez Vincent , Descamps Diane , Marcelin Anne‐Genevieve , Visseaux Benoit ,   the ANRS‐MIE resistance study group
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Molecular surveillance is an important tool for detecting chains of transmission and controlling the HIV epidemic. This can also improve our knowledge of molecular and epidemiological factors for the optimization of prevention. Our objective was to illustrate this by studying the molecular and epidemiological evolution of the cluster including the new circulating recombinant form (CRF) 94_cpx of HIV‐1, detected in 2017 and targeted by preventive actions in 2018.

Methods

In June 2022, 32 HIV‐1 sequence databases from French laboratories were screened to identify all individuals who had acquired CRF94_cpx or a similar strain, whatever the date of diagnosis. Phylogenetic analyses were performed with the sequences identified, and biological parameters were collected at the time of diagnosis and after the start of treatment to analyse the evolution of the cluster. Full genomes were sequenced to characterize the new strains.

Results

We analysed 98 HIV‐1 isolates: 63 were CRF94, three were unclassifiable, and the other 32 formed a new cluster containing a new recombinant, CRF132_94B, derived from CRF94 and a subtype B strain. At least 95% of the individuals in both the CRF94 and CRF132 clusters were men who have sex with men (MSM), most of whom had acquired HIV less than 12 months before diagnosis. The number of CRF94 diagnoses declined drastically after 2018, but CRF132 strains spread widely between 2020 and 2022, into a different area of Ile‐de‐France region and within a younger population nevertheless aware of pre‐exposure prophylaxis. Higher viraemia, lower CD4 cell counts and delayed treatment efficacy suggested that CRF94 was more virulent than CRF132, possibly due to the F subtype fragment of the vif gene.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the role of the MSM transmission cluster in spreading HIV and new variants. They show also the benefits of cluster surveillance for improving the targeting of preventive interventions, detecting the emergence of new strains and enriching our knowledge on virulence mechanisms. However, these investigations require support with sufficient resources dedicated to a regional or national programme to be responsive and effective.
Soil Health Assessment of Incorporating Bagasse in a Commercial Sugarcane Production System on Mineral Soils
Authors: Xu Nan , Bhadha Jehangir H. , Rabbany Abul , Swanson Stewart , McCray James M. , Li Yuncong , Strauss Sarah L. , Mylavarapu Rao S.
Published: January 2025

Background

Bagasse is a locally derived sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) by‐product, which has the potential to improve the soil health of mineral soils.

Aims

This study aimed to determine the effects of bagasse on the soil health of an Entisol in Southern Florida.

Methods

A field experiment was conducted on a commercial sugarcane production farm for approximately 4 years, where four rates of bagasse, including 5 cm bagasse (85 Mg ha−1), 10 cm bagasse (170 Mg ha−1), 10 cm bagasse (170 Mg ha−1) plus 336 kg ha−1 ammonium nitrate, and one control (no bagasse), were incorporated into 15 cm topsoil. Soil health indicators, including bulk density (BD), water‐holding capacity (WHC), soil pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), organic matter (OM), active carbon (C), soil protein, and nutrient contents—nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)—were evaluated.

Results

A single application of bagasse at 170 Mg ha−1 or 170 Mg ha−1 plus 336 kg ha−1 ammonium nitrate had positive short‐term effects on OM accumulation in soils, resulting in higher WHC and lower BD. Bagasse also significantly decreased soil pH, which is good for sugarcane production on alkaline soils. Soil CEC, Mehlich‐3 P and K levels, active C, and soil protein enhanced when bagasse was applied at 170 Mg ha−1 or 170 Mg ha−1 plus 336 kg ha−1 ammonium nitrate, which indicated an improvement of the overall soil chemical and biological health status.

Conclusions

10 cm of bagasse (170 Mg ha−1) was recommended as a soil organic amendment for mineral soils in Southern Florida.
Molecular docking‐guided in‐depth investigation of the biological activities and phytochemical and mineral profiles of endemic Phlomis capitata
Authors: İzol Ebubekir
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Phlomis capitata is an endemic species of flowering aromatic and medicinal plant in the family Lamiaceae, native to regions of the Mediterranean and nearby areas. Understanding the chemical compounds present in P. capitata can reveal potential medicinal properties. The present study examines the quantification of bioactive phytochemicals, antioxidant capacity and enzyme inhibitory evaluation of P. capitata extract against key enzymes involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy and glaucoma for the first time. The mechanisms of enzyme inhibition activity of the predominant compounds in extract were also interpreted by molecular docking studies. Chemical characterization of the extract was performed by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) (phytochemical profile) and inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (mineral composition) analysis. Furthermore, the binding interactions of major phytochemicals with all enzymes were investigated by molecular docking studies.

RESULTS

LC‐MS/MS analysis of the P. capitata revealed the identification of 19 compounds predominated by quinic acid (4.883 mg g−1), followed by chlorogenic acid (4.36 mg g−1), vanilic acid (3.405 mg g−1), naringenin (2.571 mg g−1) and cyranoside (1.101 mg g−1). It was determined that the mineral element was rich (K, Ca, Al and Mg) and did not exceed the toxicity limits. The P. capitata extract demonstrated remarkable antioxidant activities in the order: 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (IC50: 20.533 μg mL−1) < 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (IC50: 23.151 μg mL−1) < N,N‐dimethyl‐p‐phenylenediamine (IC50: 45.221 μg mL−1) and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (0.889 μg mL−1) < Fe3+ reducing (0.969 μg mL−1) < ferric reducing antioxidant potency (0.974 μg mL−1). Moreover, of all the enzyme inhibitory assays (acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, α‐amylase, α‐glucosidase, and human carbonic anhydrases I and II), the extract showed outstanding inhibitory activities (IC50 values of 3.26, 7.15, 6.15, 6.81, 15.21 and 11.93 μg mL−1, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In summary, the findings show that P. capitata is a versatile raw material that can be used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries to develop products that promote health. © 2025 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
High failure rate in meniscal repair when preceding anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: An analysis of two‐stage surgery for concomitant ACL injury and traumatic meniscus tear
Authors: López Personat Adolfo , Cristiani Riccardo , Stålman Anders , Wänman Johan , Von Essen Christoffer
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To investigate the failure rate, predictive factors associated with failure and clinical outcomes after a two‐stage surgery; meniscus repair followed by subsequent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR).

Methods

Patients with a concomitant traumatic meniscus tear and ACL injury who underwent a two‐stage surgery between January 2015 and January 2021 were identified. The primary outcome was meniscal repair failure, defined as a reoperation (re‐repair or resection). A Cox‐regression analysis was used in order to analyse factors associated with meniscal repair failure within 3 years after the primary surgery for a meniscal repair. Secondary outcomes were range of motion (ROM), anterior knee laxity and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) at 1‐ and 2‐year follow‐up. The thresholds of patient acceptable symptom state (PASS), treatment failure (TF) and minimum important change (MIC) were applied to KOOS4 (mean score of the KOOS Pain, Symptoms, Sports/Rec and QoL subscales).

Results

A total of 150 patients were included. The meniscal repair failure rate after 3 years was 36.7%. Failure of meniscal repair was significantly associated with a time interval >1 year between the meniscal repair to the ACLR (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2–5.5; p < 0.01), medial meniscus repair (HR = 2.3; 95% CI = 1.6–3.4; P < 0.01), and female sex (HR = 1.42; 95% CI = 1.0–1.9; p = 0.01). The age of the patient was not associated with meniscal repair failure. At the 6‐month follow‐up, most patients (72.5%) showed less than 2 mm of knee laxity; four patients (6.7%) experienced loss of extension and four patients (1.7%) experienced loss of flexion. On the KOOS4, at the 2‐year follow‐up, PASS was achieved in 53.4%, TF occurred in 1.7%, and MIC was reached in 36.4% of patients.

Conclusion

The meniscus repair failure rate after the staged procedure was 36.7% at 3 years. A longer time interval from meniscal repair to ACLR, medial meniscus repair, and female sex were associated with an increased risk of meniscal repair failure. Age was not associated with meniscal repair failure.

Level of Evidence

Level IV case series retrospective study.
Empowering Communities: A Low‐Cost Approach to Land and Water Management in Developing Countries
Authors: Singh Nitin , Hazarika Angshuman , Zhang Justin Zuopeng , Bilan Yuriy
Published: January 2025

Access to water is fundamental for life, yet many citizens in developing countries face severe water shortages, exacerbated by recurring droughts, particularly in water‐stressed regions. Street‐level bureaucrats in these areas encounter the dual challenge of addressing local residents' expectations for relief while operating with constrained resources. This study examines the innovative efforts of local bureaucrats in Banda, a drought‐prone and underdeveloped district in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, to promote rainwater harvesting and water conservation. By leveraging limited discretionary funds and engaging local stakeholders, these initiatives have demonstrated significant positive impacts. Using on‐ground visits and official government data, the study evaluates the effects of these efforts on groundwater levels, agricultural productivity, and related indicators. Findings reveal substantial improvements, including higher groundwater levels, increased agricultural yields, and enhanced water availability for sanitation needs. This research highlights the pivotal role of water conservation initiatives driven by street‐level bureaucrats in fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability. The insights from Banda offer valuable lessons for policymakers and bureaucrats in similarly resource‐constrained settings in developing countries striving to ensure water access and resilience against drought.
Impacts of the Ecosystem Transformation in Red Jujube Commercial Forests on the Soil Organic Carbon Sources and Stability in the Lvliang Mountains
Authors: Wang Hui , Mu Chunheng , Li Jiaqi , Sun Lin , Wang Gailing
Published: January 2025

Soil organic carbon (SOC) stabilization is vital for the mitigation of global climate change and retention of soil carbon stocks. The Loess Plateau is a crucial ecological zone in China and even worldwide for major ecosystem protection. However, in the Loess Plateau, there are knowledge gaps about the response of SOC sources and stabilization to different ecological transitions of jujube economic forests. Therefore, our study used clean‐cultivated jujube orchards as a control (CK) and selected five main ecosystem transformation models of abandoned jujube orchards on Lvliang Mountain: abandoned farmland (AF), replanted with Astragalus‐Bupleurum (AB), replanted with alfalfa (AL), replanted with Chinese pine (CP), and replanted with Chinese arborvitae (PO). The soil properties, sources and physical fractions of organic carbon and their correlations in the 0‐ to 20‐cm soil layer at each sample site were analyzed. The results show that the ecosystem transformation significantly increased the SOC by affecting plant‐ and microbe‐derived carbon and altering its components. Different treatments have varying impacts on the SOC content. The lignin phenol (VSC) content in the soils in the five ecosystem transformation models was greater than that in the CK and had the following ranking: CP > AL > PO > AF > AB (p < 0.05). The ecosystem transformation also significantly increased the soil total amino sugar (TAS) content, microbial residue carbon (MRC), and its contribution to organic carbon. Additionally, it promoted the accumulation of particulate organic carbon (POC) and mineral‐associated organic carbon (MAOC) and positively impacted the carbon stability. Among the five ecosystem transformation models, CP had the greatest impact on lignin phenols, amino sugars, SOC content, and stability, whereas AF and AB contributed the least to SOC. The results of this study provide a scientific basis to assess and select optimal transformation modes for the ecosystem transformation of commercial jujube forests.
Impact of Anti‐Fatigue Floor Mat on Surgical Staff Comfort Levels in Head and Neck Surgery Cases
Authors: Jacey Elliott B. S. , Acharya Pawan , Queimado Lurdes , Zhao Daniel , Greene Wesley , Krempl Greg , Mhawej Rachad
Published: January 2025

Objective

Musculoskeletal symptoms are common among surgical staff and can have long‐term implications on health and wellbeing. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of anti‐fatigue floor mat on the comfort level of surgical teams during head and neck surgeries lasting ≥ 3 h.

Methods

Over 4 months, we prospectively randomized 34 major (≥ 3 h) head and neck procedures to the use or not of an anti‐fatigue floor mat. Anonymous questionnaires measured the comfort levels in different subjects including the surgeons, assistant surgeons, and surgical scrub technicians (n = 57). Subjects completed questionnaires before, immediately after, and one day after surgery. Variables collected included demographics, overall discomfort level, overall energy level, discomfort level in different body parts, number of breaks taken during the case, time since last physical exercise, and frequency of physical exercise. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique was used for data analysis.

Results

The group that used anti‐fatigue floor mats reported lower increases in discomfort from pre‐op to immediately post‐op and 24 h post‐op compared to the group that did not (p = 0.009 and p < 0.001). Participants who used the mats reported significant lower levels of pain in the ankles and feet, knees, and shoulders immediately post‐op compared to participants who did not. Participants who used the mats reported lower increases in discomfort in their back, hips, knees, neck, and shoulders from pre‐op to post‐op.

Conclusions

Using anti‐fatigue floor mats during surgery is an effective and low‐cost intervention to decrease the musculoskeletal symptoms experienced by the surgical team.

Level of Evidence

2.
Eddy dipole differentially influences particle‐associated and water column protistan community composition
Authors: Beatty Jennifer L. , Stewart Brittany P. , Mesrop Lisa Y. , DeLong Edward F. , Karl David M. , Caron David A.
Published: January 2025

Ocean eddies are mesoscale features that can extend > 100 km and maintain cohesiveness for months, impacting planktonic community structure and water column biogeochemical cycles. Standing stocks of protists in the water column and on sinking particles were investigated using microscopy, in situ imagery, and metabarcoding across an anticyclonic to cyclonic eddy dipole in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre during July 2017. The water column was sampled from the surface to 500 m and particle interceptor traps were deployed at 150 m. Protistan assemblage composition varied substantially between sample type and analytical approach across the eddy dipole. Alveolates represented 63% of sequences from water samples. In contrast to water samples, rhizarian protists represented 79% of trap sequences obtained by metabarcoding of sediment trap material. Microscopy of trap material supported the important contribution of Rhizaria to sinking particles and revealed increased relative abundances of ciliates in the anticyclonic eddy and diatoms in the cyclonic eddy. In situ imagery confirmed the presence of relatively large Rhizaria that were not adequately assessed from water samples but contributed significantly to particle flux. Together, these data demonstrate differing perspectives of planktonic protistan community composition and contributions to sinking particles gained from the application of different sampling and analytic approaches. Our observations and analyses indicate a specific subset of the protistan community contributed disproportionately to organic matter downward export.
Design of an Advanced Filtering Antenna by Utilizing Coupling Mechanisms between Radiative and Non‐Radiative Resonators
Authors: Hao Jia‐Xiang , Zhu Lei , Li Hui‐Dong , Zhang Xiao
Published: January 2025

This letter proposes a novel filtering antenna with an alternated form of radiative and non‐radiative resonators. The coupling effects between radiative and non‐radiative resonators are thoroughly analyzed with proposed equivalent circuit models. Within its passband, the continuous phase changes between two radiators are discussed in detail. To obtain an in‐phase superposition between two radiators at central frequency, the original half‐wavelength non‐radiative resonator is prolonged to one wavelength. Meanwhile, the phase shifting between two radiators yields a continuous beam steering performance in the passband. With the help of the proposed circuit model, the conditions for obtaining the maximum radiation gain, the key factors affecting the antenna bandwidth, and the prediction of the scanning range are discussed. The proposed method can indeed benefit the entire design procedure quantitatively rather than qualitatively. Finally, a prototype is demonstrated and fabricated. The results show that a third‐order filtering antenna is successfully designed with a relatively high gain of 9.84 dBi and a wide frequency scanning range of −29° to 21°. The proposed antenna enjoys a rather simple structure without extra feeding networks.
Clinicopathological Features of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease‐Related Myositis: A Case Series
Authors: Sakamoto Naohiro , Izumi Rumiko , Suzuki Naoki , Tateyama Maki , Aoki Masashi
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) patients often have myositis, however, myopathological and clinical data for MCTD are limited. Recent reports have shown that the pathology of MCTD myositis resembles that of immune‐mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM), whereas earlier reports described perifascicular atrophy or inflammatory infiltrates predominantly in the perivascular region in MCTD myositis. We aim to describe the clinical and myopathological features of MCTD myositis.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical and myopathological findings of nine myositis patients with U1‐RNP antibodies who fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for MCTD.

Results

Eight patients had muscle weakness in the proximal extremities, and overall, six patients had atypical weakness in the face, neck, wrist, or fingers. Four of those patients required additional intensive treatment (intravenous immunoglobulin or methylprednisolone). Therapeutic responses were consistently favorable overall, and there were no deaths during the observation period. In biopsied muscle specimens, common findings were mild myogenic change, increased necrotic and regenerating fibers, and inflammatory infiltrates predominating in the perivascular region. Two specimens were classified into the spectrum of dermatomyositis (DM); the remaining seven specimens, which had a smaller number of necrotic fibers and nonspecific infiltration, were unclassifiable.

Discussion

Patients with MCTD myositis often exhibit an axial or atypical distribution of muscle weakness, which may require intensive therapy. Histological study demonstrates the heterogeneity of myopathology of MCTD myositis and suggests that DM and underlying vasculopathy might be present in these patients.