Search

The ability to controllably chlorinate metal-oxide surfaces can provide opportunities for designing selective oxidation catalysts. In the present study, we investigated the surface chlorination of IrO2(110) by HCl using temperature programmed reaction spectroscopy (TPRS), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. We find that exposing IrO2(110) to HCl, followed by heating to 650 K in ultrahigh vacuum, produces nearly equal quantities of on-top and bridging Cl atoms on the surface, Clt and Clbr, where the Clbr atoms replace O-atoms that are removed from the surface by H2O formation. After HCl adsorption at 85 K, only H2O desorbs at low Cl coverages during TPRS, but HCl begins to desorb in increasing yields as the Cl coverage is increased above about 0.5 monolayer (ML). The desorption of Cl2 was not observed under any conditions, in good agreement with the high barrier for this reaction predicted by DFT. A maximum Cl coverage of 1 ML, with nearly equal coverages of Clt and Clbr atoms, could be generated by reacting HCl with IrO2(110) in UHV. Our results suggest that a kinetic competition between recombinative HCl and H2O desorption under the conditions studied limits the saturation Cl coverage to a value less than the 2 ML maximum predicted by thermodynamics. XPS further shows that the partitioning of Cl between the Clt and Clbr states can be altered by subjecting partially chlorinated IrO2(110) to reductive or oxidative treatments, demonstrating that the Cl site population can change dynamically in response to the gas environment. Our results provide insights for understanding the chlorination of IrO2(110) by HCl and can enable future experimental studies to determine how Cl-modification alters the surface chemical reactivity of IrO2(110) and potentially enhances selectivity toward partial oxidation chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs), most notably transition metal carbides and borides, exhibit melting temperatures exceeding 3000 °C, making them appropriate candidates to withstand the extreme temperatures (∼2000 °C) expected to occur at the leading edges of hypersonic vehicles. However, their propensity to react rapidly with oxygen limits their sustained application. The high entropy paradigm enables the exploration of novel UHTC compositions that may improve on the oxidation resistance of conventional refractory mono-carbides and -diborides. The oxidation kinetics of candidate high entropy group IV + V (HfZrTiTaNb)C and (HfZrTiTaNb)B2 materials were evaluated at 1500–1800 °C using Joule heating in one atmosphere 0.1%–1% oxygen/argon gas mixtures for times up to 15 min. Possible mechanisms based on the resulting complex time, temperature, and oxygen partial pressure dependencies are discussed. The carbides formed porous and intergranular oxides. Oxidation resistance was improved upon a continuous external scale formation. The diborides formed dense external scales and exhibited better oxidation resistance compared to the carbides. This improvement was attributed to the formation of liquid boria. Both compositions showed an unexpected reduction in material consumption at 1800 °C for all times tested, compared to results at lower temperatures. An in-depth analysis of the composition and morphology of the oxide scale and sub-surface regions for specimens tested at 1800 °C revealed that the formation of denser group IV-rich (Hf, Zr, Ti) oxides mitigated the formation of the otherwise detrimental liquid-forming group V (Ta, Nb) oxides, leading to the improved oxidation resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Twenty-four hour movement behaviors (ie, physical activity [PA], screen time [ST], and sleep) are associated with children's health outcomes. Identifying day-level contextual factors, such as child care, that positively influence children's movement behaviors may help identify potential intervention targets, like improving access to child care programs. This study aimed to examine the between- and within-person effects of child care on preschoolers' 24-hour movement behaviors. Methods: Children (N = 74, 4.7 [0.9] y, 48.9% girls, 63.3% White) wore an Axivity AX3 accelerometer on their nondominant wrist 24 hours per day for 14 days to measure PA and sleep. Parents completed surveys each night about their child's ST and child care attendance that day. Linear mixed effects models predicted day-level 24-hour movement behaviors from hours spent in child care. Results: Children spent an average of 5.0 (2.9) hours per day in child care. For every additional hour of child care above their average, children had 0.3 hours (95% CI, −0.3 to −0.2) less ST that day. Between-person effects showed that compared with children who attended fewer overall hours of child care, children who attended more hours had less overall ST (B = −0.2 h; 95% CI, −0.4 to 0.0). Child care was not significantly associated with PA or sleep. Conclusions: Child care attendance was not associated with 24-hour PA or sleep; however, it was associated with less ST. More research utilizing objective measures of ST and more robust measures of daily schedules or structure is necessary to better understand how existing infrastructure may influence preschool-aged children's 24-hour movement behaviors. In addition, future research should consider how access to child care may influence child care attendance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitotic Arrest Deficient 1 (gene name MAD1L1), an essential component of the mitotic spindle assembly checkpoint, is frequently overexpressed in colon cancer, which correlates with poor disease-free survival. MAD1 upregulation induces two phenotypes associated with tumor promotion in tissue culture cells–low rates of chromosomal instability (CIN) and destabilization of the tumor suppressor p53. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, we generated a novel mouse model by inserting a doxycycline (dox)-inducible promoter and HA tag into the endogenous mouse Mad1l1 gene, enabling inducible expression of HA-MAD1 following exposure to dox in the presence of the reverse tet transactivator (rtTA). A modest 2-fold overexpression of MAD1 in murine colon resulted in decreased p53 expression and increased mitotic defects consistent with CIN. After exposure to the colon-specific inflammatory agent dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), 31% of mice developed colon lesions, including a mucinous adenocarcinoma, while none formed in control animals. Lesion incidence was particularly high in male mice, 57% of which developed at least one hyperplastic polyp, adenoma or adenocarcinoma in the colon. Notably, mice expressing HA-MAD1 also developed lesions in tissues in which DSS is not expected to induce inflammation. These findings demonstrate that MAD1 upregulation is sufficient to promote colon tumorigenesis in the context of inflammation in immune-competent mice. Author summary: Worldwide, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second-highest cause of cancer-related deaths. A better understanding of the molecular causes of colorectal cancer could provide novel therapeutic targets for this disease. Mitotic Arrest Deficient-1 (MAD1) is commonly overexpressed in colorectal cancers, and elevated expression of MAD1 is associated with worse prognosis. Here we generated a new mutant mouse with inducible, modest overexpression of MAD1. First identified for its role in mitosis, MAD1 is required to ensure proper chromosome segregation. Elevated expression of MAD1 causes chromosome mis-segregation in the colons of these mice. During interphase, overexpressed MAD1 destabilizes the well-known tumor suppressor protein, p53. Consistent with this, mouse colons modestly overexpressing MAD1 show decreased expression of p53. Since inflammation is a risk factor for colorectal cancer, we induced inflammation in the colon using dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and found that MAD1 overexpression significantly increased the incidence of colon tumors. Like inflammation-mediated colon tumors in humans, in the mice these tumors were more common in males than females. This work shows that MAD1 overexpression can promote colon cancer and suggests that MAD1 may be a novel drug target for this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Ventral Hernia Working Group (VHWG) proposed a ventral hernia grading guideline, primarily supported by expert opinion, recommending biologic mesh placement in high-risk patients. We investigated the relationship between this industry-sponsored guideline and discourse around ventral hernia repair (VHR). Methods: Medline platform from Web of Science's database identified publications "pre-VHWG"(1999-01-01 to 2009-12-31), and "post-VHWG"(2010-01-01 to 2020-12-31) describing VHR and complications or recurrence of VHR with the following comorbidities: COPD, smoking, diabetes, immunosuppression, or obesity. Poisson regression analyzed keyword frequency over time using logarithmically transformed data. Results: Of 1291 VHR publications identified pre-VHWG and 3041 publications identified post-VHWG, 172 (13.3%) and 642 (21.1%) publications respectively included prespecified keywords. The keyword groups "biologic"(IRR 3.39,95%CI1.34-11.4,p = 0.022) and "comorbid"(IRR 1.95, 95%CI1.09-3.74,p = 0.033) significantly increased with frequency after publication of the VHWG. Conclusion: The VHWG publication likely contributed to a focus on comorbidities and biologic mesh in the ensuing literature within the field of VHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) occurs in up to 50% of stroke survivors. Presence of pre-existing vascular brain injury, in particular the extent of white matter hyperintensities (WMH), is associated with worse cognitive outcome after stroke, but the role of WMH location in this association is unclear. Aims: We determined if WMH in strategic white matter tracts explain cognitive performance after stroke. Methods: Individual patient data from nine ischemic stroke cohorts with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were harmonized through the Meta VCI Map consortium. The association between WMH volumes in strategic tracts and domain-specific cognitive functioning (attention and executive functioning, information processing speed, language and verbal memory) was assessed using linear mixed models and lasso regression. We used a hypothesis-driven design, primarily addressing four white matter tracts known to be strategic in memory clinic patients: the left and right anterior thalamic radiation, forceps major, and left inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus. Results: The total study sample consisted of 1568 patients (39.9% female, mean age = 67.3 years). Total WMH volume was strongly related to cognitive performance on all four cognitive domains. WMH volume in the left anterior thalamic radiation was significantly associated with cognitive performance on attention and executive functioning and information processing speed and WMH volume in the forceps major with information processing speed. The multivariable lasso regression showed that these associations were independent of age, sex, education, and total infarct volume and had larger coefficients than total WMH volume. Conclusion: These results show tract-specific relations between WMH volume and cognitive performance after ischemic stroke, independent of total WMH volume. This implies that the concept of strategic lesions in PSCI extends beyond acute infarcts and also involves pre-existing WMH. Data access statement: The Meta VCI Map consortium is dedicated to data sharing, following our guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along with clinical and laboratory findings, imaging has a significant role in the initial evaluation and treatment follow-up of a wide variety of infectious and non-infectious musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. The imaging findings of many non-infectious MSK processes, such as inflammatory, metabolic, and degenerative arthropathies, complications of diabetes mellitus, osseous and soft tissue injuries, osteonecrosis, tumors, and tumor-like lesions may be nonspecific and often overlap with those found in MSK infections. In this article, the authors discuss the imaging findings of both frequent and rare mimickers of MSK infections, including potential distinguishing characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoscopic polypectomy could be an appropriate, definitive treatment for pathologic T1 (pT1) colon polyps without high-risk features. Prior studies suggested worse prognosis for proximal versus distal advanced-stage colon cancers following curative treatment. However, there is limited evidence on the prognostic impact of tumor location for pT1s. Patients and methods: This was a retrospective cohort study using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database to identify adults with T1NxMx or T1N0-3M0/x colon adenocarcinoma from 2000 to 2019. Results: A total of 3398 patients underwent endoscopic polypectomy (17% proximal) and 28,334 had a partial colectomy (49% proximal) for pT1 adenocarcinoma. Following endoscopic polypectomy, 5-year overall and cancer-specific survival rates were 64% and 91% for proximal versus 83% and 96% for distal polyps, compared with 82% and 95% for proximal versus 88% and 97% for distal tumors after colectomy. In multivariable models, there was a greater difference in overall survival between proximal and distal polyps for those who underwent endoscopic versus surgical resection [hazard ratio (HR) 1.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.49–2.02 vs. HR 1.13, 95% CI 1.08–1.18]. Patients with proximal versus distal polyps who underwent polypectomy also exhibited increased cancer-specific mortality (HR 1.94, 95% CI 1.37–2.75). However, cancer-specific survival variations based on tumor location were no longer observed in patients undergoing partial colectomy (HR 1.09, 95% CI 0.98–1.21). Conclusions: Proximal tumor location was independently associated with worse overall and cancer-specific survival following endoscopic polypectomy. However, after colectomy, the cancer-specific disparity based on tumor laterality was mitigated. These findings suggest that proximal location may be considered a high-risk feature in endoscopic polypectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pathologic complete response (pCR) after preoperative chemoradiation (nCRT) correlates with improved overall survival for patients with locally advanced rectal cancers (LARCs). Escalation protocols including total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT), which delivers multi-agent chemotherapy and chemoradiation before surgery, are associated with increased complete response rates. However, TNT is not associated with improved overall survival. The authors hypothesized that the route to pCR may be an important predictor of oncologic outcome. Methods: Adults with LARC between 2006 and 2017 were identified in the National Cancer Database. The cohort was limited to those who received neoadjuvant radiation (45–70 Gy) and underwent proctectomy. Results: Of 25,880 patients, 16 % received TNT and 84 % had nCRT followed by either multi-agent (27 %), single-agent (14 %), or no adjuvant chemotherapy (44 %). Overall, 18 % achieved pCR, with higher rates in the TNT cohort than in the nCRT (18 %) or multi-agent (14 %) chemotherapy cohorts. With control for covariates, the OS in the pCR cohort was similar for the patients that received single-agent therapy and those that received multi-agent adjuvant therapy, and superior to the TNT and no adjuvant therapy cohorts. Conversely, among the patients who did not achieve pCR, those who received single-agent chemotherapy had OS comparable with those who had multi-agent adjuvant therapy and TNT, which was better than no adjuvant therapy. Conclusion: Patients achieving pCR after TNT had worse OS than those who had CRT alone, suggesting that the neoadjuvant route by which pCR is achieved is prognostically relevant. Therefore, in the era of neoadjuvant therapy escalation, pCR does not necessarily portend a uniformly favorable prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deformed wing virus (DWV) has long been identified as a critical pathogen affecting honeybees, contributing to colony losses through wing deformities, neurological impairments, and reduced lifespan. Since DWV also affects other pollinators, it poses a significant threat to global pollination networks. While honeybees have been the focal point of DWV studies, emerging research indicates that this RNA virus is not host-specific but rather a generalist pathogen capable of infecting a wide range of insect species, including other bee species such as bumblebees and solitary bees, as well as wasps and ants. This expands the potential impact of DWV beyond honeybees to broader ecological communities. The black imported fire ant, Solenopsis richteri, is an economically important invasive ant species. In this study, we describe deformed wing (DW) symptoms in S. richteri. DW alates were found in three of nine (33%) laboratory colonies. The symptoms ranged from severely twisted wings to a single crumpled wing tip. Additionally, numerous symptomatic alates also displayed altered mobility, ranging from an ataxic gait to an inability to walk. Viral replication of DWV was confirmed using a modified strand-specific RT-PCR. Our results suggest that S. richteri can be an alternative host for DWV, expanding our understanding of DWV as a generalist pathogen in insects. However, additional research is required to determine whether DWV is the etiological agent responsible for DW syndrome in S. richteri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization has identified antibiotic resistance as one of the three greatest threats to human health. The need for antibiotics is a pressing matter that requires immediate attention. Here, computer-aided drug design is used to develop a structurally unique antibiotic family targeting holo-acyl carrier protein synthase (AcpS). AcpS is a highly conserved enzyme essential for bacterial survival that catalyzes the first step in lipid synthesis. To the best of our knowledge, there are no current antibiotics targeting AcpS making this drug development program of high interest. We synthesize a library of > 700 novel compounds targeting AcpS, from which 33 inhibit bacterial growth in vitro at ≤ 2 μg/mL. We demonstrate that compounds from this class have stand-alone activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive organisms and synergize with colistin to enable coverage of Gram-negative species. We demonstrate efficacy against clinically relevant multi-drug resistant strains in vitro and in animal models of infection in vivo including a difficult-to-treat ischemic infection exemplified by diabetic foot ulcer infections in humans. This antibiotic family could form the basis for several multi-drug-resistant antimicrobial programs. Holo-acyl carrier protein synthase (AcpS) is an enzyme that catalyses the first step in lipid synthesis and is essential for bacterial survival, but no current antibiotics targeting AcpS are known. Here, the authors use computer-aided drug design to develop a structurally unique antibiotic family targeting AcpS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase insufficiency syndrome (SPLIS) is a recently recognized inborn error of metabolism associated with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome as well as adrenal insufficiency and immunological, neurological, and skin manifestations. SPLIS is caused by inactivating mutations in SGPL1, encoding the pyridoxal 5'phosphate-dependent enzyme sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase, which catalyzes the final step of sphingolipid metabolism. Some SPLIS patients have undergone kidney transplantation, and others have been treated with vitamin B6 supplementation. In addition, targeted therapies including gene therapy are in preclinical development. In anticipation of clinical trials, it will be essential to characterize the full spectrum and natural history of SPLIS. We performed a retrospective analysis of 76 patients in whom the diagnosis of SPLIS was established in a proband with at least one suggestive finding and biallelic SGPL1 variants identified by molecular genetic testing. The main objective of the study was to identify factors influencing survival in SPLIS subjects. Results: Overall survival at last report was 50%. Major influences on survival included: (1) age and organ involvement at first presentation; (2) receiving a kidney transplant, and (3) SGPL1 genotype. Among 48 SPLIS patients with nephropathy who had not received a kidney transplant, two clinical subgroups were distinguished. Of children diagnosed with SPLIS nephropathy before age one (n = 30), less than 30% were alive 2 years after diagnosis, and 17% were living at last report. Among those diagnosed at or after age one (n = 18), ~ 70% were alive 2 years after diagnosis, and 72% were living at time of last report. SPLIS patients homozygous for the SPL R222Q variant survived longer compared to patients with other genotypes. Kidney transplantation significantly extended survival outcomes. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that SPLIS is a phenotypically heterogeneous condition. We find that patients diagnosed with SPLIS nephropathy in the first year of life and patients presenting with prenatal findings represent two high-risk subgroups, whereas patients harboring the R222Q SGPL1 variant fare better than the rest. Time to progression from onset of proteinuria to end stage kidney disease varies from less than one month to five years, and kidney transplantation may be lifesaving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro co-culture techniques that allow the growth of plants and pathogens under controlled environmental conditions are being used to re-create host plant infection. These approaches reduce infection times, promote reproducibility, and enable a rapid evaluation of plant-pathogen interactions. As a result, these systems have become essential in breeding programs aimed at developing plant resistance to diseases. In this study, we developed and validated an in vitro co-culture system to investigate the Armillaria root rot (ARR) affecting Prunus spp. This disease, caused by fungi Armillaria spp. and Desarmillaria caespitosa, poses a severe threat to the stone and nut fruit industry due to the susceptibility of most commercial rootstocks to infection and the lack of effective management options for its control. The system consists of a fiber-supported liquid approach in sterile plastic vessels that allows a fast and reproducible fungal infection under controlled environmental conditions. The floor of the vessels was covered with a polyester-fiber matte and a germination paper that served as an interface between the mycelia and the plant roots. The vessels were subjected to inoculation with Armillaria mellea and D. caespitosa, and three Prunus genotypes ('Guardian®', 'MP-29', and Prunus cerasifera '14–4') were co-cultured with both fungi. Disease progression and plant and fungal biomass were monitored during co-culture. The presented in vitro co-culture approach facilitates the concurrent growth of Armillaria/Desarmillaria spp. and Prunus spp., excluding most of the limitations associated with greenhouses and field experiments. This system provides consistent and reproducible conditions for investigating a prominent plant disease affecting Prunus spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining the public JWST /NIRCam imaging programs CEERS, PRIMER, and JADES, spanning a total area of |$\sim 500\, {\rm arcmin}^2$|⁠ , we obtain a sample of |$\gt $| 30 000 galaxies at |$z_{\rm phot}\sim 4\!-\!9$| that allows us to perform a complete, rest-optical-selected census of the galaxy population at |$z\gt 3$|⁠. Comparing the stellar mass |$M_*$| and the UV-slope |$\beta$| distributions between JWST - and HST -selected samples, we generally find very good agreement and no significant biases. Nevertheless, JWST enables us to probe a new population of UV-red galaxies that was missing from previous HST -based Lyman-break galaxy (LBG) samples. We measure galaxy stellar mass functions (SMFs) at |$z\sim 4\!-\!9$| down to limiting masses of |$10^{7.5}\!-\!10^{8.5}\, {\rm M_\odot }$|⁠ , finding steep low-mass slopes over the entire redshift range, reaching values of |$\alpha \approx -2$| at |$z\gtrsim 6$|⁠. At the high-mass end, UV-red galaxies dominate at least out to |$z\sim 6$|⁠. The implied redshift evolution of the SMF suggests a rapid build-up of massive dust-obscured or quiescent galaxies from |$z\sim 6$| to |$z\sim 4$| as well as an enhanced efficiency of star formation towards earlier times (⁠|$z\gtrsim 6$|⁠). Finally, we show that the galaxy mass density grows by a factor |$\sim 20\times$| from |$z\sim 9$| to |$z\sim 4$|⁠. Our results emphasize the importance of rest-frame optically selected samples in inferring accurate distributions of physical properties and studying the mass build-up of galaxies in the first 1.5 Gyr of cosmic history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Liver cancer remains the leading cause of death and public health threat among the Mongolian population. So far, there has been no in-depth analysis to describe the burden of common attributable factors to liver cancer in Mongolia. Therefore, we aimed to explore the most prevalent causes of liver cancer and its trends from 1990 to 2019. Methods: We extracted the primary liver cancer data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2019 to examine the mortality and morbidity of liver cancer by its etiological types, which included alcohol, viral hepatitis B and C, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The data was extracted by sex and 5-year age intervals from 1990 to 2019. Data included mortality, incidence, years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs), and disability-adjusted l i fe-years (DALYs) of liver cancer among the Mongolian population. Results: Mongolia had the world's highest age-standardized DALYs for liver cancer (2558.1) in 2019. Alcohol-attributable DALYs (786.6) were 29 times higher than the global average (26.1), and liver cancer due to hepatitis C (752.6) and B (763.2) were 21.5 (35.0) and 10.9 (69.1) times higher, respectively. Over the past 30 years, there has been a steady increase in the incidence and number of deaths caused by liver cancer in Mongolia. In 2019, liver cancer incidence due to alcohol consumption was 3.1 times higher for males than females, and hepatitis B was 2.7 times higher for males than females. However, the incidence of hepatitis C and NASH were slightly higher for females. Deaths from liver cancer accounted for 9.51% (2365) of total deaths in Mongolia in 2019, with a continuously increasing trend in the fraction of death compared to 1990, which was 11 times higher than the global average (0.86%), particularly in females with a 319.6% (95% UI 234.9-435.7) increase observed during the study period. Liver cancer due to hepatitis B, C, and alcohol each shared about one-third of liver cancer deaths. Conclusion: A comprehensive analysis of the burden of liver cancer in Mongolia reveals alcohol use as a primary cause of liver cancer mortality, particularly affecting men and significantly impacting the disease burden. Viral hepatitis continues to pose a major public health concern in the country. Although significant milestones have progressed, addressing the unique demographic and geographical challenges requires tailored approaches for specific target populations. The evidence generated from this analysis is crucial to support policy guidance, contribute to evidence-based decisions, guide public health prevention measures, and amplify population health promotion and disease prevention throughout Mongolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production in the Northern Great Plains of North America has been challenged by wheat stem sawfly (WSS), Cephus cinctus Norton, for a century. Damaging WSS populations have increased, highlighting the need for reliable surveys. Remote sensing (RS) can be used to correlate reflectance measurements with nuanced phenomena like cryptic insect infestations within plants, yet little has been done with WSS. To evaluate interactions between WSS-infested wheat and spectral reflectance, we grew wheat plants in a controlled environment, experimentally infested them with WSS and recorded weekly hyperspectral measurements (350–2500 nm) of the canopies from prior to the introduction of WSS to full senescence. To assess the relationships between WSS infestation and wheat reflectance, we employed sparse multiway partial least squares regression (N-PLS), which models multidimensional covariance structures inherent in multitemporal hyperspectral datasets. Multitemporal hyperspectral measurements of wheat canopies modeled with sparse N-PLS accurately estimated the proportion of WSS-infested stems (R2 = 0.683, RMSE = 13.5%). The shortwave-infrared (1289–1380 nm) and near-infrared (942–979 nm) spectral regions were the most important in estimating infestation, likely due to internal feeding that decreases plant-water content. Measurements from all time points were important, suggesting aerial RS of WSS in the field should incorporate the visible through shortwave spectra collected from the beginning of WSS emergence at least weekly until the crop reaches senescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To withstand their internal turgor pressure and external threats, most bacteria have a protective peptidoglycan (PG) cell wall. The growth of this PG polymer relies on autolysins, enzymes that create space within the structure. Despite extensive research, the regulatory mechanisms governing these PG-degrading enzymes remain poorly understood. Here, we unveil a novel and widespread control mechanism of lytic transglycosylases (LTs), a type of autolysin responsible for breaking down PG glycan chains. Specifically, we show that LD-crosslinks within the PG sacculus act as an inhibitor of LT activity. Moreover, we demonstrate that this regulation controls the release of immunogenic PG fragments and provides resistance against predatory LTs of both bacterial and viral origin. Our findings address a critical gap in understanding the physiological role of the LD-crosslinking mode in PG homeostasis, highlighting how bacteria can enhance their resilience against environmental threats, including phage attacks, through a single structural PG modification. The regulatory mechanisms governing peptidoglycan-degrading autolysins remain poorly understood. In this work, Alvarez et al. show that lytic transglycosylase activity is inhibited by LD-crosslinks in Vibrio cholerae and other bacteria, providing resistance against predatory enzymes of both bacterial and viral origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poor surgical outcomes remain a problem in trachoma-endemic countries working to reach elimination thresholds. Methods to improve outcomes could positively impact programmatic success. Methods: This parallel, three-armed clinical trial conducted in Ethiopia randomized individuals with previously unoperated trachomatous trichiasis (TT) to receive surgery utilizing one of three approaches: bilamellar tarsal rotation with a 3 mm incision height (BLTR-3), BLTR with 5 mm incision height (BLTR-5) and posterior lamellar tarsal rotation (PLTR). We followed participants for one year. The primary outcome was post-operative trichiasis (PTT). Secondary outcomes were eyelid contour abnormalities (ECA) and pyogenic granulomata. Findings: We randomized and operated on 4,914 individuals with previously unoperated TT (6,940 eyes). Primary analyses include 6,815 eyes with follow-up. Overall, 1,149 (16.9%) eyes developed PTT. The risk difference for PTT was minimal comparing BLTR-3 and PLTR (adjusted risk difference [aRD] 1.8% (98.3%CI: -0.5–4.2%)), but significantly higher for BLTR-5 surgeries compared to BLTR-3 (aRD: 6.7% (3.9–9.4%)) and PLTR (aRD: 8.6% (5.9–11.3%)). BLTR-5 had the lowest ECA (6.1% versus 9.6% BLTR-3, 11.2% PLTR) and granuloma rates (5.2% versus 6.5% BLTR-3 and 7.5% PLTR). One eyelid operated with PLTR experienced an eyelid margin division; four BLTR-3 and eight BLTR-5 eyelids experienced excessive bleeding. Interpretation: We do not recommend modifying the BLTR incision height of 3 mm. Overall, we did not find a significant difference in PTT between BLTR-3 and PLTR in terms of PTT or ECA. Trial registration: Registration number: NCT03100747; ClinicalTrials.gov Full study protocol available at (https://doi.org/10.15139/S3/QHZXWD) Author summary: Trachomatous trichiasis (TT) surgery is the primary way to manage in-turned eyelashes in trachoma-endemic settings. The goal of this study was to understand what procedure has the best outcomes. We compared three ways of doing TT surgery: bilamellar tarsal rotation (BLTR) surgery with the World Health Organization recommended 3 mm incision height, BLTR with the incision height increased to 5 mm and posterior lamellar tarsal rotation (PLTR). We hypothesized that increasing the BLTR incision height to 5 mm would reduce post-operative trichiasis (PTT) compared with the 3 mm height. On the contrary, this study demonstrates that increasing the incision height of BLTR surgeries does not improve PTT rates. It also suggests that BLTR and PLTR surgeries can have similar outcomes in some settings. Further research is needed to examine the impact of training order on surgery outcomes. The study also investigated whether surgeon performance on a particular procedure depends on the order they were trained. The current study does not suggest that converting BLTR to PLTR surgeons reduces PTT rates. However, given the small number of conversion surgeons in this study, further research is needed to evaluate whether retraining BLTR surgeons is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While first-generation, spike (S)-based COVID-19 vaccines were effective against early SARS-CoV-2 strains, the rapid evolution of novel Omicron subvariants have substantially reduced vaccine efficacy. As such, broadly protective vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 are needed to prevent future viral emergence. In addition, it remains less clear whether peripheral immunization, especially with mRNA vaccines, elicits effective respiratory immunity. Our group has developed a nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine expressing the nucleocapsid (N) protein of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 virus and has tested its use in combination with the S-based mRNA vaccine (mRNA-S). In this study, we examined efficacy of mRNA-N alone or in combination with mRNA-S (mRNA-S+N) against more immune evasive Omicron variants in hamsters. Our data show that mRNA-N alone induces a modest but significant protection against BA.5 and that dual mRNA-S+N vaccination confers complete protection against both BA.5 and BQ.1, preventing detection of virus in the hamster lungs. Analysis of respiratory immune response in mice shows that intramuscular mRNA-S+N immunization effectively induces respiratory S- and N-specific T cell responses in the lungs and in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), as well as antigen-specific binding IgG in BAL. Together, our data further support mRNA-S+N as a potential pan-COVID-19 vaccine for broad protection against current and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effectiveness of the NSW Health "Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service®"(Get Healthy) to facilitate weight loss on a population scale has been documented, but this was based on self-reported measures. Our study aims to test the effectiveness of the Get Healthy Service on objectively measured weight, BMI, waist circumference, and changes in other health behaviours, including nutrition, physical activity and alcohol intake. Methods: Men and women aged 40–70 years (n = 154) with pre-diabetes (5.7% < HbA1c < 6.5%) were referred from GP Practices to the Get Healthy Service, NSW Health. A subset (n = 98) participated in the "Zinc In Preventing the Progression of pre-Diabetes" (ZIPPeD) trial (ACTRN12618001120268). Results: The self-reported outcomes showed a statistically significant improvement from baseline to 12 months in weight (mean 2.7 kg loss, p < 0.001), BMI (mean 1 unit reduction, p < 0.001), and waist circumference (mean 4.3 cm reduction, p < 0.001). However, in the objectively measured outcomes from ZIPPeD, the differences were more modest, with point estimates of 0.8 kg mean weight loss (p = 0.1), 0.4 unit reduction in BMI (p = 0.03), and 1.8 cm reduction in waist circumference (p = 0.04). Bland-Altman plots indicated that discrepancies were due to a small number of participants who dramatically underestimated their weight or BMI. There were minimal changes in nutrition, physical activity, and alcohol. Conclusions: The potential benefits of Get Healthy should be interpreted with caution as we have shown significant differences between self-reported and objectively measured values. More valid and objective evidence is needed to determine the program's effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This literature review examines the impact of orthopaedic trauma on patient mental health. It focuses on patient outcomes, available resources, and healthcare provider knowledge and education. Orthopaedic trauma represents a significant physical and psychological burden for patients, often resulting in long-term disability, pain, and functional limitations. Understanding the impact of orthopaedic trauma on patient mental health is crucial for improving patient care, and optimizing recovery and rehabilitation outcomes. In this review, we synthesize the findings of empirical studies over the past decade to explore the current understanding of mental health outcomes in patients with orthopaedic trauma. Through this analysis, we identify gaps in existing research, as well as potential avenues for improving patient care and mental health support for patients with severe orthopaedic injuries. Our review reveals the pressing need for collaboration between healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and social support systems to ensure comprehensive mental care for patients with traumatic orthopaedic injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Mosquito vector research and population control strategies are supported by the rearing of species like Aedes aegypti, commonly known for propagating yellow fever. Colonies of Ae. aegypti are typically reared on fresh animal bloods to supply nutrients including iron, sodium chloride, and albumin necessary for reproduction. However, fresh animal blood is difficult to handle, store, and transport, and its use in rearing is limited to two weeks post-collection. The present study reports on the identification of an inexpensive, shelf-stable spray-dried porcine blood (SDPB) product containing accessible hemoglobin that demonstrated usefulness in a simple mosquito alternative meal (AM) formulation. Quantitative evidence that the phagostimulant in SDPB is hemoglobin was obtained through chromatography assays and the elimination of other feeding stimulants as potential candidates. Ae. aegypti observably engorged upon and produced eggs when fed the AM, which was also shown to sustain multiple colony generations with offspring viable through the larval and pupal stages. SDPB-based AMs may develop into platforms for studying the rearing of hematophagous insects with the potential to expand the capabilities of resource-intensive population control strategies. Research into mosquito-borne illnesses faces hurdles because feeding fresh animal blood to rear female mosquitoes presents logistical, economic, and safety challenges. In this study, a shelf-stable additive (spray-dried porcine blood; SDPB) hypothesized to supply accessible hemoglobin was evaluated within an alternative meal (AM) containing whey powder and PBS for rearing the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti. LC–MS/MS proteomics, microbial assays, and particle reduction techniques confirmed and characterized the functionality of hemoglobin in SDPB, while engorgement, fecundity, egg viability, and meal stability bioassays assessed AM performance. Chemical assays supported hemoglobin as the phagostimulant in SDPB with aggregates partially solubilized in the AM that can be more accessible via particle reduction. Unpaired two-tailed t-tests indicate that the AM stimulates oogenesis (t11 = 13.6, p = 0.003) and is stable under ambient (1+ y; t12 = 0.576, p = 0.575) and aqueous (14 d; t12 = 0.515, p = 0.639) conditions without decreasing fecundity. Egg hatch rates for the ninth generation of AM-reared Ae. aegypti were 50–70+%. With further development, this meal may serve as a platform for mass rearing or studying effects of nutritional additives on mosquito fitness due to its low cost and stability. Future work may examine tuning spray drying parameters and resulting impacts on hemoglobin agglomeration and feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be a risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD). We examined the relation between PTSD and PD in a cohort of 158,122 Veterans who had any Veterans Health Administration (VHA) or Medicare health care utilization between 10/1/1999– 2/17/2021. Using a nested case-control design we matched 10 controls to each Veteran with PD by sex, race, and rank. In conditional logistic regression models adjusted for camp and smoking, a PTSD diagnosis was significantly associated with PD (OR = 1.35; p = 0.0002); odds were higher if PTSD was coded before PD (OR = 1.53, p < 0.0001). PTSD may be a risk factor for PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Muscle injury classification and grading systems have been reported for >100 years; yet it offer limited evidence relating the clinical or radiological qualities of a muscle injury to the pathology or clinical outcome. The British Athletics Muscle Injury Classification (BAMIC) incorporates recent predictive features of muscle injuries and provides a precise radiographic framework for clinical prediction and management. Objective: To investigate clinical outcomes, particularly time to return to play (RTP), reinjury rate (RIR), and prognostic value of specific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, of activity-related muscle injuries (tears) in athletes after application of the BAMIC. Data Sources: A search of PubMed (NLM), EMBASE (Ovid), Web of Science (Clarivate), Cochrane Library (Wiley), and ClinicalTrials.gov from the inception date of each database through August 31, 2022, was conducted. Keywords included the BAMIC. Study Selection: All English language studies evaluating clinical outcomes of RTP and RIR after activity-related muscle injuries and where BAMIC was applied were included. A total of 136 articles were identified, and 11 studies met inclusion criteria. Study Design: Systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42022353801). Level of Evidence: Level 2. Data Extraction: Two reviewers independently screened studies for eligibility and extracted data. Methodological quality of included study was assessed independently by 2 reviewers with the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Scale (NOS); 11 good quality studies (4 prospective cohort studies, 7 retrospective cohort studies) with 468 athletes (57 female) and 574 muscle injuries were included. Results: All studies reported a statistically significant relationship between BAMIC grade, BAMIC injury site, and/or combined BAMIC grade and injury site with RTP. A statistically significant increased RIR was reported by BAMIC grade and BAMIC injury site in 2 of 4 and 3 of 4 studies, respectively. The prognostic value of individual MRI criteria was limited. Conclusion: Consistent evidence suggests that BAMIC offers prognostic and therapeutic guidance for clinical outcomes, particularly RTP and RIR, after activity-related muscle injuries in athletes that may be superior to previous muscle injury classification and grading systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although teacher recruitment and retention are widespread challenges in education, rural and urban counties in Nevada often feel particularly challenged. Within the research conducted, a common theme was uncovered as to why this challenge may be the case. Consistently and unprompted, inservice and preservice teachers mention their perceptions of the violence that occurs in rural and urban schools and communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluate a decadal ozone profile record derived from the Suomi National Polar‐orbiting Partnership (SNPP) Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS) Limb Profiler (LP) satellite instrument. In 2023, the OMPS LP data were re‐processed with the new version 2.6 retrieval algorithm that combines measurements from the ultraviolet (UV) and visible (VIS) parts of the spectra. It employs the second order Tikhonov regularization to retrieve a single vertical ozone profile between 12.5 km (or cloud tops) and 57.5 km with a vertical resolution of about 1.9–2.5 km between 20 and 55 km. The algorithm uses radiances measured at six UV ozone‐sensitive wavelengths (295, 302, 306, 312, 317, and 322 nm) paired with 353 nm, and one VIS wavelength at 606 nm combined with 510 and 675 nm to form a triplet. Each wavelength pair or triplet is used over a limited range of tangent altitudes where the sensitivity to ozone change is strongest. A new aerosol correction scheme was implemented based on a gamma‐function particle size distribution. In addition, numerous calibration changes that affected ozone retrievals were applied to measured LP radiances, including updates in altitude registration, radiometric calibration, stray light, and spectral registration. The key version 2.6 enhancement is the improved stability of the LP ozone record confirmed by the reduction in relative drifts between LP ozone and correlative measurements, linked previously to a drift in the version 2.5 LP altitude registration. Plain Language Summary: The Montreal Protocol protects the Earth's ozone layer by regulating the production and usage of ozone‐depleting substances. As a result of this international treaty, we expect stratospheric ozone to increase over time. A series of OMPS Limb Profilers (LP) was designed to ensure continuous spaceborne capabilities for detecting changes in the stratospheric ozone distribution over several decades. The ozone record from the first OMPS LP on board the Suomi NPP mission spans more than 12 years, from April 2012 to the present. A statistically significant positive drift in the previous version 2.5 of LP ozone data, linked to a drift in the LP altitude registration, has compromised its fitness to accurately detect ozone trends. In this paper, we introduce the new version 2.6 OMPS LP ozone data set with improved stability. We found a substantial reduction in relative drifts between LP ozone and correlative measurements. Therefore, the version 2.6 LP ozone can be used with higher confidence for monitoring and quantifying stratospheric ozone recovery. Key Points: The ozone record from the first OMPS Limb Profiler that spans more than 12 years has been reprocessed with the new version 2.6 algorithmThe key v2.6 improvement is the reduction in relative drift that was linked previously to a drift in the v2.5 LP altitude registrationThe study demonstrates the importance of continuous improvements in calibration and retrieval to ensure accuracy and stability of LP ozone [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV) is a mosquitoborne virus that reemerged in December 2023 in Argentina and Uruguay, causing a major outbreak. We investigated the outbreak using epidemiologic, entomological, and genomic analyses, focusing on WEEV circulation near the Argentina‒Uruguay border in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. During November 2023‒April 2024, the outbreak in Argentina and Uruguay resulted in 217 human cases, 12 of which were fatal, and 2,548 equine cases. We determined cases on the basis of laboratory and clinical epidemiologic criteria. We characterized 3 fatal equine cases caused by a novel WEEV lineage identified through a nearly complete coding sequence analysis, which we propose as lineage C. Our findings highlight the importance of continued surveillance and equine vaccination to control future WEEV outbreaks in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the association between stock price incentives (portfolio delta) and earnings management using tax expense, as well as whether this association varies with opportunities to manage earnings. Prior research suggests stock price incentives provide a positive "reward effect" and a negative "risk effect," causing managers to trade off these countervailing effects when managing earnings. We posit that greater opportunities to manage earnings alter the risk-reward tradeoff related to portfolio delta, potentially changing the association between stock price incentives and earnings management. We do not find a significant association between stock price incentives and earnings management using tax expense on average. However, the association is positive and significant when tax-related earnings management opportunities are sufficiently high, consistent with opportunities mitigating the risk effect of delta. Collectively, our results suggest that managers respond to stock price incentives differently depending on their opportunity sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: Routine collection of sexual orientation (SO) and gender identity (GI; collectively SOGI) in cancer clinics advances cancer care equity. METHODS: In 2022, NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) practice groups were asked about routine collection of SOGI data in the electronic health record. The proportions of practice groups reporting collection of SO and/or GI data were calculated, and practice group characteristics were assessed for associations. RESULTS: Of 271 practice groups nationwide, 42% (n = 112) collect SO data, 58% (n = 157) collect GI data, and 35% (n = 96) collect both. In multivariate analyses, SO data collection was associated with practice groups having minority outreach staff (odds ratio [OR], 2.07 [95% CI, 1.12 to 3.81]; P =.02); GI data collection was associated with practice groups located in the Northeastern United States (OR, 2.08 [95% CI, 0.73 to 5.91]; P =.045), and those with a higher proportion of new patients who were White (OR, 1.02 [95% CI, 1.01 to 1.04]; P <.001). Practice groups in the South were least likely to collect SOGI data (OR, 0.49 [95% CI, 0.26 to 0.94]; P =.004). There were no statistically significant differences in SO and/or GI collection on the basis of the practice group's proportion of Medicaid/Medicare patients, number of new patients with cancer per year, or practice ownership. CONCLUSION: Slightly over one third of NCORP practice groups report routinely collecting SOGI data. There are regional differences in data collection, underscoring the need to craft targeted, region-specific interventions focused on boosting the capture and recording of SOGI data in an affirming manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper expands our understanding of the lived experience of policing by exploring how people describe and analyze one of its salient aspects: its economic consequences. Despite growing scholarship on predatory policing strategies in the aftermath of the Justice Department's investigation of Ferguson, Missouri, we lack an understanding of how these practices are experienced, theorized, and resisted by policed, race-class subjugated (RCS) communities. How do people narrate, make meaning from, or theorize their material relationship to policing? Do policed publics understand such practices as part of broader processes of racialized governance, political power, and community inequality? Utilizing the Portals Policing Project, we collected the largest contemporary database of narratives about policing, including over 850 dialogues that were qualitatively coded. Using a grounded theory approach we analyzed a subset of dialogues that focus on financial aspects of police, court, and carceral encounters to examine how people discussed their experiences with monetary sanctions and their broader meanings and relationships to racialized political economy and geography. When people analyzed the material dimensions of policing and incarceration, four prominent discursive theorizations emerged: (1) Police and courts deploy a variety of techniques (criminalizing public space, strategic application of child support fees, unfair taxation, among others) to structurally control the flow of RCS resources, often toward the state and non-policed White communities. (2) Such resource flows occur in the broader context of municipal prioritization of police and carceral institutions over schools and social services, which permit and sustain RCS community criminalization, extraction, and reproduction of marginalization. (3) Police construct racialized urban spaces and markets, marking informal RCS economic activity as transgressive and delimiting their expansion. (4) Police surveillance is racially embodied and permeates daily life to restrict individual activity and, indirectly, economic potential. Overall, these narratives center the police and carceral state in processes of materialized race-making—the active reproduction of racial economic inequality and dispossession that goes beyond basic racial disparities in state punishment and revenue generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this novel large-scale multiplexed immunofluorescence study we comprehensively characterized and compared layer-specific proteomic features within regions of interest of the widely divergent dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (A46) and primary visual cortex (A17) of adult rhesus monkeys. Twenty-eight markers were imaged in rounds of sequential staining, and their spatial distribution precisely quantified within gray matter layers and superficial white matter. Cells were classified as neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, or endothelial cells. The distribution of fibers and blood vessels were assessed by quantification of staining intensity across regions of interest. This method revealed multivariate similarities and differences between layers and areas. Protein expression in neurons was the strongest determinant of both laminar and regional differences, whereas protein expression in glia was more important for intra-areal laminar distinctions. Among specific results, we observed a lower glia-to-neuron ratio in A17 than in A46 and the pan-neuronal markers HuD and NeuN were differentially distributed in both brain areas with a lower intensity of NeuN in layers 4 and 5 of A17 compared to A46 and other A17 layers. Astrocytes and oligodendrocytes exhibited distinct marker-specific laminar distributions that differed between regions; notably, there was a high proportion of ALDH1L1-expressing astrocytes and of oligodendrocyte markers in layer 4 of A17. The many nuanced differences in protein expression between layers and regions observed here highlight the need for direct assessment of proteins, in addition to RNA expression, and set the stage for future protein-focused studies of these and other brain regions in normal and pathological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) has been used for chemotherapy for colorectal and other cancers for over 50 years. The prevailing view of its mechanism of action is inhibition of thymidine synthase leading to defects in DNA replication and repair. However, 5‐FU is also incorporated into RNA causing defects in RNA metabolism, inhibition of pseudouridine modification, and altered ribosome function. We examined the impact of 5‐FU on post‐transcriptional small RNA modifications (PTxMs) and the expression and export of RNA into small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). EVs are secreted by all cells and contain a variety of proteins and RNAs that can function in cell‐cell communication. We found that treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells with 5‐FU represses sEV export of miRNA and snRNA‐derived RNAs, but promotes export of snoRNA‐derived RNAs. Strikingly, 5‐FU treatment significantly decreased the levels of pseudouridine on both cellular and sEV small RNA profiles. In contrast, 5‐FU exposure led to increased levels of cellular small RNAs containing a variety of methyl‐modified bases. These unexpected findings show that 5‐FU exposure leads to altered RNA expression, base modification, and aberrant trafficking and localization of small RNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Perinatal twin lamb mortality reduces productivity and reproductive efficiency in Australian sheep meat and wool enterprises. This study investigated whether supplementing 4 g of betaine into the diets of twin-bearing Merino ewes during late pregnancy would improve lamb viability measures and survival to weaning under field conditions. The results indicated that dietary supplementation with betaine increased plasma creatine concentrations in ewes at day 130 of gestation and lamb rectal temperature within 4–24 h following birth. While the findings of this study provide some new, promising results, more research in the field is required before supplementation with betaine during late gestation can be used as an on-farm strategy to improve lamb viability and survival. Twin lamb mortality is a significant economic problem impacting the Australian sheep industry. Maternal betaine supplementation improved lamb vigour and early post-natal survival when ewes and lambs were housed indoors, suggesting that betaine may be beneficial to feed under extensive pasture systems. This study investigated whether maternal betaine supplementation during late gestation would improve Merino twin lamb live weight, thermoregulation, vigour and survival to weaning under field conditions. Ewes received dietary betaine at either 0 g/day (CTL; n = 115) or 4 g/day from day 110 of gestation (dG 110) until ~49 days post-partum (pp) (BET; n = 115). Measures indicative of lamb viability and survival were collected within 4–24 h of birth and at ~49 days pp and ~93 days pp. BET ewes had higher creatine and creatinine concentrations at dG 130 than CTL ewes (p < 0.05). BET lambs had a higher rectal temperature within 4–24 h following birth than CTL lambs (p < 0.05). CTL lambs were heavier at ~49 days pp and grew faster from birth to ~49 days pp than BET lambs (both p < 0.05). The time taken after release from the researcher to first suckling was quicker in the CTL lambs than BET lambs (p < 0.05). This study demonstrated that supplementing betaine increased creatine concentration in twin-bearing ewes and thermoregulatory capacity in neonatal lambs under extensive grazing systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graduate students’ identities and personal lives are heavily tied to their experiences of research, and many struggle to find, understand, and use information for research purposes. Using a drawing exercise rooted in visual research methods combined with semi-structured interviews, a research team in the United States and Canada explored graduate student perceptions of research with nineteen participants. Thematic analysis identified six themes: research is abstract; research is an odyssey; social support makes or breaks the student experience; research is an emotional continuum; interplay between identity/values; information is problematic. The study has implications for how librarians support graduate student research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogel cell encapsulation devices are a common approach to reduce the need for chronic systemic immunosuppression in allogeneic cell product transplantation. Macroencapsulation approaches are an appealing strategy, as they maximize graft retrievability and cell dosage within a single device; however, macroencapsulation devices face oxygen transport challenges as geometries increase from preclinical to clinical scales. Device design guided by computational approaches can facilitate graft oxygen availability to encapsulated cells in vivo but is limited without accurate measurement of oxygen levels within the transplant site and graft. In this study, we engineer pO2 reporter composite hydrogels (PORCH) to enable spatiotemporal measurement of oxygen tension within macroencapsulation devices using the proton Imaging of siloxanes to map tissue oxygenation levels (PISTOL) magnetic resonance imaging approach. We engineer two methods of incorporating siloxane oximetry reporters within hydrogel devices, an emulsion and microbead‐based approach, and evaluate PORCH cytotoxicity on co‐encapsulated cells and accuracy in quantifying oxygen tension in vitro. We find that both emulsion and microbead PORCH approaches enable accurate in situ oxygen quantification using PISTOL magnetic resonance oximetry, and that the emulsion‐based PORCH approach results in higher spatial resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extravehicular activities will play a crucial role in lunar exploration on upcoming Artemis missions and may involve astronauts operating a lunar terrain vehicle (LTV) in a standing posture. This study assessed kinematic response and injury risks using an active muscle human body model (HBM) restrained in an upright posture on the LTV by simulating dynamic acceleration pulses related to lunar surface irregularities. Linear accelerations and rotational displacements of 5 lunar obstacles (3 craters; 2 rocks) over 5 slope inclinations were applied across 25 simulations. All body injury metrics were below NASA's injury tolerance limits, but compressive forces were highest in the lumbar (250–550N lumbar, tolerance: 5300N) and lower extremity (190–700N tibia, tolerance: 1350N) regions. There was a strong association between the magnitudes of body injury metrics and LTV resultant linear acceleration (ρ = 0.70–0.81). There was substantial upper body motion, with maximum forward excursion reaching 375 mm for the head and 260 mm for the chest. Our findings suggest driving a lunar rover in an upright posture for these scenarios is a low severity impact presenting low body injury risks. Injury metrics increased along the load path, from the lower body (highest metrics) to the upper body (lowest metrics). While upper body injury metrics were low, increased body motion could potentially pose a risk of injury from flail and occupant interaction with the surrounding vehicle, suit, and restraint hardware. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several reports of concurrent MYC , BCL2 , BCL6 , and CCND1 rearrangements in high-grade B-cell lymphoma (HGBL) have been recently described. Herein, we aimed to delineate the scope of this entity through a review of HGBL with a "quadruple-hit" genetic profile identified at our institution. We performed a retrospective review (2015-2023) at our institution of B-cell lymphoma (BCL) cases that were evaluated with concurrent MYC , BCL2 , and BCL6 break-apart and IGH::MYC and IGH::CCND1 dual-color dual-fusion fluorescence in situ hybridization studies. Of 203 cases meeting inclusion criteria, 2 (1%) with a quadruple-hit genetic profile were identified. Case 1 represented a 59-year-old female with widespread lymphadenopathy and a diagnosis of HGBL who exhibited primary refractoriness to dose-adjusted etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and rituximab (DA-EPOCH-R) chemotherapy. Case 2 represented a 58-year-old male with mediastinal and abdominal lymphadenopathy and a diagnosis of large BCL who died from disease after 1 cycle of DA-EPOCH-R chemotherapy. Similarly, a literature review of 7 previously reported cases of HGBL with a quadruple-hit profile also demonstrated aggressive disease behavior. Our study adds 2 new cases to the rarely encountered quadruple-hit HGBL, and a brief meta-analysis of the 9 available cases indicates aggressive disease behavior conferred by this constellation of genetic events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we describe how we use classroom phenomena to help fifth grade students develop testable questions and productive investigations. Engaging students in observing and seeking to explain a classroom decomposition chamber has helped them to engage more successfully in the science and engineering practices (SEPs) of asking questions, planning and carrying out investigations, and constructing explanations. We highlight the following important components that teachers can incorporate in their practice: (1) the use of a classroom phenomenon that represents a more complex outdoor process and provides students extended, shared experience; (2) question development as a collaborative and iterative process that teachers and students engage in together; (3) considering how questions will support progress on disciplinary core ideas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Weight thresholds have historically determined timing of enterostomy closure (EC) in premature neonates. Recent evidence suggests that neonates less than 2 kg (L2K) can safely undergo EC. We evaluate our single-center experience with performing EC in preterm neonates at L2K versus greater than 2 kg (G2K) at time of EC. Methods: A retrospective review of neonates who underwent EC from January 2018 to 2020 was performed. Neonates who were greater than 90 days at initial operation were excluded. Demographics, clinical characteristics including gestational age (GA) and birth weight (BW), operative reports, and outcomes were reviewed. We compared 30-day complications between neonates who underwent EC at L2K and G2K. We also compared time to full feeds (FF) and postoperative length of stay (LOS). Results: Twenty-four neonates were included: 11 L2K and 13 G2K. The median GA and BW was 25.9 weeks (IQR 2.89) and 805 g (IQR 327), respectively. The most common intraoperative diagnosis during index operation was spontaneous perforation (70%), followed by necrotizing enterocolitis (8.69%). There were no significant differences in GA, BW, or diagnosis, between the L2K versus G2K cohort. We found no difference in complication rates, time to FF (12 days versus 10 days, P =.89), or postoperative LOS (31 days versus 36.5 days, P =.76) between patients who underwent EC at L2K versus G2K, respectively. Conclusion: Although weight gain may be an important indicator of perioperative nutrition status, this study shows that weight alone should not preclude otherwise appropriate patients from undergoing EC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Determining the self-efficacy perceptions of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients has a key role in health care practices. With further evaluation, the Self-Efficacy Measure for Sleep Apnea (SEMSA) could serve as a useful scale to develop specific interventions to increase self-efficacy in patients with OSA during the acceptance and maintenance of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Objective: The aim of this study is to translate the SEMSA into Turkish and to evaluate the psychometric properties of the translation. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample of patients recently diagnosed with CPAP-naïve OSA. Linguistic and content validity of the scale were evaluated, while exploratory factor analysis and 2-level confirmatory factor analysis were used for validity. Internal consistency and test-retest methods were used in reliability analyses. Results: The mean (SD) age of the patients with OSA was 51.36 (11.29), and 68% were male. The item factor loads obtained as a result of the confirmatory factor analysis ranged from 0.44 to 0.94, confirming the three-factor structure of the instrument. The Cronbach's α coefficient of the scale was found to be 0.90. Measurements made within the scope of test-retest analysis were found to be related and consistent results were obtained in the intervening time (P <.01). Conclusions: In this study, the Turkish version of SEMSA was found to be a valid and reliable tool and it could be used to evaluate the adherence-related cognition in Turkish patients with OSA on CPAP therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of routine childhood immunization with the 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) in a four-dose regimen (3 + 1 schedule) versus the 15-valent PCV (PCV15/V114) in a three-dose regimen (2 + 1) in Germany. The study utilized a decision-analytic Markov model to estimate lifetime costs and effectiveness outcomes for a single birth cohort in Germany. The model tracked the incidence of acute pneumococcal infections and long-term pneumococcal meningitis sequelae for both vaccination strategies. The vaccine effectiveness data were derived from published clinical trials and observational studies of PCV7 and PCV13. Indirect effects, such as herd protection and serotype replacement, were included in the model. The model adopted a societal perspective, including direct medical, direct non-medical, and indirect costs. Scenario and sensitivity analyses were performed. In the base case, PCV20 prevented more pneumococcal disease cases and deaths, with an expected gain of 96 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) compared to V114. However, PCV20 was associated with a total incremental cost of EUR 48,358,424, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of EUR 503,620/QALY. Most of the scenario and sensitivity analyses estimated that the ICER for PCV20 exceeded EUR 150,000/QALY. Routine childhood immunization with PCV20 instead of V114 may not be an economically efficient use of healthcare resources in Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early childhood educators often lack adequate preparation in the delivery of evidence-based practices. However, providing preservice teachers with ongoing implementation support during field-based training experiences may serve to occasion evidence-based practice delivery when they enter the field of early childhood education. Using a concurrent multiple baseline across participants design, this study examined the effectiveness of a multitiered consultation model to increase three early childhood preservice teachers' rates of behavior-specific praise in target and generalization settings. The results indicated all three preservice teachers' rates of behavior-specific praise increased across target and generalization settings, with evidence that praise rates maintained following removal of implementation supports. The results, limitations, and implications for research and practice are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The few voxel-wise lesion-symptom mapping (VLSM) studies aimed at identifying the anatomy of executive function are limited by the absence of a model and by small populations. Using Trail Making Test (TMT) and verbal fluency and a model of their architectures, our objective was to identify the key structures underlying two major executive processes, set-shifting and strategic word search. Methods: We applied a validated VLSM analysis to harmonized cognitive and imaging data from 2009 ischemic stroke patients as a part of the Meta VCI Map consortium. All contrast analyses used an adjusted threshold with 2000 Freedman–Lane permutations (p ≤ 0.05). Results: The TMT parts A and B were associated with structures involved in visual-spatial processing, the motor system, the frontal lobes, and their subcortical connections. Set-shifting depended on the left dorsomedial frontal region. Both semantic and phonemic fluency tests depended on verbal output abilities and processing speed with similar slopes in different languages. The strategic search process depended on Broca's area, F2 and related tracts, temporal and deep regions. Lastly, the lesion map of set-shifting did not overlap with those of strategic word search processes. Interpretation: Our results identify the anatomical substrates of two main executive processes, revealing that they represent only a specific subpart of previously reported structures. Finally, our results indicate that executive functions depend on several specific, anatomically separable executive processes mainly operating in various parts of the frontal lobes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]