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This study investigated changes in motivation, self‐efficacy beliefs, and a range of emotions, including enjoyment, hope, pride, curiosity, anxiety, boredom, apathy, confusion, and shame, from a complex dynamic systems theory (CDST) perspective over a 2‐year period in the Hungarian English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context. Using the same questionnaire, we collected data four times throughout 4 semesters from 101 participants studying English in two Hungarian high schools. For data analysis, we used latent growth curve modeling (LGCM) to detect the group‐level changes in learners’ motivation, self‐efficacy, and emotions. We also employed dynamic cluster analysis to identify trends in learners’ trajectories regarding these variables. In our panel data, linear models described the data well concerning the ought‐to second language (L2) self, language learning experience, boredom, apathy, and confusion, and for enjoyment, curiosity, anxiety, and shame, nonlinear models had the best fit. We could also identify trajectories depicting attractor states and learner paths that featured influences of perturbations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eye tracking has taken hold in second language acquisition (SLA) and bilingualism as a valuable technique for researching cognitive processes, yet a comprehensive picture of reporting practices is still lacking. Our systematic review addressed this gap. We synthesized 145 empirical eye‐tracking studies, coding for 58 reporting features and applying a gap analysis to the codings. Although certain aspects of reporting, such as descriptions of auxiliary assumptions, equipment, and setup, were consistently implemented, we found significant variation and sometimes complete omission of crucial details surrounding aspects of data quality and of data preprocessing and cleaning. This lack of information hinders the evaluation of methodological rigor and overall study quality of eye‐tracking research. We propose a set of field‐specific reporting guidelines in the form of a checklist to improve the quality of data collected and contribute to the larger goal of advancing the replication and reproducibility of eye‐tracking research in SLA and bilingualism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A handful of second language (L2) studies have explored bidirectional pragmatic transfer: forward pragmatic transfer—the influence of learners' first language (L1) on their L2—and reverse pragmatic transfer—the impact of learners' L2 on their L1. This explanatory sequential mixed‐methods study investigated how L2 proficiency influenced the bidirectionality of pragmatic transfer in compliment responses. Thirty‐four intermediate English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language (EFL) learners and 34 advanced EFL learners were recruited from a university in China. The results of computer‐mediated communication via WeChat showed that, similar to L1 Chinese speakers, the intermediate learners tended to deny compliments in English, indicating forward pragmatic transfer. Like L1 English speakers, the advanced learners frequently accepted compliments in Chinese, suggesting reverse pragmatic transfer. Furthermore, when responding to compliments in Chinese or English, some advanced learners preferred to accept compliments first and then deny them. Findings from interviews revealed that identity and language prestige might affect bidirectional pragmatic transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Framed by family language policy (FLP), in conjunction with the Douglas Fir Group's ecological transdisciplinary framework for second language acquisition, this multiple case study investigates the FLPs of two Hmong–American families in relation to a Hmong–English dual‐language program (DLP) where their children are enrolled. Interviews, artifacts, and family‐recorded interactions were utilized to get a full understanding of what factors at the different levels of interaction shaped their FLP. The findings reveal that both sets of parents perceived the relationship between the home and school as a partnership for their children's heritage language development, with the school taking on the onus for Hmong literacy. This resulted in both families’ more secondary role and, thus, home language practices that merely supplement the school content. Importantly, while both sets of parents held similar beliefs regarding the role of the DLP in heritage language maintenance, it was their beliefs in the value of Hmong that led to the different FLPs between the families. The article concludes with limitations and implications for schools interested in wanting to better serve their heritage language learners and families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EuCorVac‐19 (ECV‐19) is a recombinant receptor binding domain (RBD) COVID‐19 vaccine that displays the RBD (derived from the SARS‐CoV‐2 Wuhan strain) on immunogenic liposomes. This study compares the safety and immunogenicity of ECV‐19 to the COVISHIELDTM (CS) adenoviral‐vectored vaccine. Interim analysis is presented of a randomized, observer‐blind, immunobridging Phase 3 trial in the Philippines in 2600 subjects, with treatment and biospecimen collection between October 2022 and January 2023. Healthy male and female adults who received investigational vaccines were 18 years and older, and randomly assigned to ECV‐19 (n = 2004) or CS (n = 596) groups. Immunization followed a two‐injection, intramuscular regimen with 4 weeks between prime and boost vaccination. Safety endpoints were assessed in all participants and immunogenicity analysis was carried out in a subset (n = 585 in ECV‐19 and n = 290 in CS groups). The primary immunological endpoints were superiority of neutralizing antibody response, as well as noninferiority in seroresponse rate (defined as a 4‐fold increase in RBD antibody titers from baseline). After prime vaccination, ECV‐19 had a lower incidence of local solicited adverse events (AEs) (12.0% vs. 15.8%, p < 0.01), and solicited systemic AEs (13.1 vs. 17.4%, p < 0.01) relative to CS. After the second injection, both ECV‐19 and CS had lower overall solicited AEs (7.8% vs. 7.6%). For immunological assessment, 98% of participants had prior COVID‐19 exposure (based on the presence of anti‐nucleocapsid antibodies) at the time of the initial immunization, without differing baseline antibody levels or microneutralization (MN) titers against the Wuhan strain in the two groups. After prime vaccination, ECV‐19 induced higher anti‐RBD IgG relative to CS (1,464 vs. 355 BAU/mL, p < 0.001) and higher neutralizing antibody response (1,303 vs. 494 MN titer, p < 0.001). After boost vaccination, ECV‐19 and CS maintained those levels of anti‐RBD IgG (1367 vs. 344 BAU/mL, p < 0.001) and neutralizing antibodies (1128 vs. 469 MN titer, p < 0.001). ECV‐19 also elicited antibodies that better neutralized the Omicron variant, compared to CS (763 vs. 373 MN titer, p < 0.001). Women displayed higher responses to both vaccines than men. The ECV‐19 group had a greater seroresponse rate compared to CS (83% vs. 30%, p < 0.001). In summary, both ECV‐19 and CS had favorable safety profiles, with ECV‐19 showing diminished local and systemic solicited AE after prime immunization. ECV‐19 had significantly greater immunogenicity in terms of anti‐RBD IgG, neutralizing antibodies, and seroresponse rate. These data establish a relatively favorable safety and immunogenicity profile for ECV‐19. The trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05572879). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An adult American Quarter Horse mare presented for pigmenturia and lethargy of 12 hours' duration and was diagnosed with silver maple leaf toxicity. The mare had intravascular hemolysis and azotemia. The mare was treated with a transfusion of whole blood, fluids administered IV, antibiotics, oxygen insufflation, and supportive care. The azotemia persisted despite conventional medical management and hemodialysis was elected. After 2 intermittent hemodialysis treatments over 3 days, the azotemia almost resolved, clinical signs improved, and the mare was discharged. The blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and electrolyte concentrations remained normal 6 months later after examination by the referring veterinarian. Hemodialysis treatment can be feasible in horses if equipment and expertise are available and should be considered as a treatment option if indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative analysis of complex mixtures, including compounds having similar chemical properties, is demonstrated using an automatic and high throughput approach to microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED). Compositional analysis of organic and inorganic compounds can be accurately executed without the need of diffraction standards. Additionally, with sufficient statistics, small amounts of compounds in mixtures can be reliably detected. These compounds can be distinguished by their crystal structure properties prior to structure solution. In addition, if the crystals are of good quality, the crystal structures can be generated on the fly, providing a complete analysis of the sample. MicroED is an effective method for analyzing the structural properties of sub‐micron crystals, which are frequently found in small‐molecule powders. By developing and using an automatic and high throughput approach to MicroED, and with the use of SerialEM for data collection, data from thousands of crystals allow sufficient statistics to detect even small amounts of compounds reliably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from disorder to order and structural transformation are distinctive metal‐organic framework (MOF) features. How to adapt or control both behaviors in MOF has rarely been studied. In this case, we demonstrate that our successful synthesis of [Al(OH)(PDA)]n (AlPDA‐53‐DEF, AlPDA‐53‐H, and AlPDA‐68) with H2PDA=4,4′‐[1,4‐phenylenebis(ethyne‐2,1‐diyl)]‐di benzoic acid has shown the intricate world of Aluminum Metal‐Organic Frameworks (Al‐MOFs). It offers profound insights into defect structures to order and transformations. AlPDA‐53‐DEF, in particular, revealed a fascinating interplay of various pore sizes within both micro and mesoporous regions, unveiling a unique lattice rearrangement phenomenon upon solvent desorption. Defects and disorders emerged as crucial impacts of transforming AlPDA‐53‐DEF, with its initially imperfect crystallinity, into the highly crystalline, hierarchically porous AlPDA‐53‐H. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organizational capacity building—the process of developing leadership, collecting and analyzing data, building buy‐in, and implementing programming—is foundational to effectively changing schools, and frequently relies on technical assistance. This study employed a quasi‐experimental, repeated measured design to evaluate the role of technical assistance provided through Safe School Certification model in improving school climate. Schools worked through an eight‐element framework, using data from a sample of six middle and high schools in Washington, D.C. that completed data collection in all years of the evaluation. Students in schools receiving technical assistance for implementing the SSC Framework had more positive changes in perceptions of school climate than students in schools that did not receive support, but those differences were small. The results from this study offer limited evidence that providing schools with technical assistance to improve organizational capacity is associated with more positive student perceptions of school climate. Highlights: Schools receiving technical assistance had more positive changes in perceptions of school climate.Differences in school climate changes were relatively small.Organizational capacity models may help improve school climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the rising divorce rates in some immigrant communities in the US, there has been scant scholarly attention on how immigrants experience divorce, particularly on the role of culture in the divorce process. The primary goal of the present study was to explore the diverse divorce experiences of Hmong immigrants in the United States. As a patrilineal and patriarchal community, divorce is generally frowned upon, with Hmong women often experiencing shame and stigma. A narrative design with nine Hmong women was used to capture their intricate stories that highlight such experiences. Using a thematic analysis, our findings highlighted the complexity and cultural nuances the women in our sample encountered from initiating divorce to the divorce itself: (1) No wants a divorce, (2) Divorce is the "last straw", (3) Varying divorce pathways, and (4) Navigating systems as a Hmong woman. For those who have increased knowledge of both the US American court system and divorce laws along with the traditional Hmong mediations, they may be more equipped in navigating systems. Yet as Hmong divorce practices are performed by Hmong men, Hmong women may struggle with finding their voice or support needed to advocate for their divorce. In such cases, the US court system may be more appealing in assisting their cause (e.g., custody). Professionals working with such communities should be culturally aware and attuned to the different marriage and divorce practices to understand both cultural and legal barriers for those seeking a divorce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 6-year-old 21.5 kg castrated male Siberian Husky was presented for acute onset of lethargy, vomiting, hemorrhagic diarrhea, and inappetence. Physical examination revealed marked discomfort upon abdominal palpation and 5%–7% dehydration. The CBC and biochemical profile revealed changes consistent with mild to moderate inflammation, dehydration, and gastrointestinal (GI) disease. Despite aggressive gastrointestinal support, anorexia persisted, and an upper GI endoscopy was performed in conjunction with esophagostomy tube placement. Endoscopy revealed abnormal gastric mucosa characterized by moderately well-demarcated areas of blue-black discoloration. Impression smears of a gastric biopsy revealed abundant extracellular yeasts with morphology most consistent with Candida spp. and frequent extracellular cocci. Similar yeast and bacteria, in lower numbers, were observed on cytologic analysis of a direct smear of the rectal mucosa. A rectal swab submitted for fungal culture yielded pure growth of fungal yeasts identified as Diutina (formerly Candida) rugosa by matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The dog's clinical signs improved with fluconazole, and he was discharged. Follow-up fungal culture of a rectal swab showed no growth of D. rugosa. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report that describes the clinical, hematologic, cytologic, and gross findings of enteric colonization by D. rugosa in a dog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease. It is particularly prevalent in tropical countries and has major consequences for human and animal health. In Benin, the disease's epidemiology remains poorly understood, especially in livestock, for which data are lacking. Objectives: To characterise Leptospira seroprevalence and locally circulating serogroups in livestock from Cotonou and to estimate the prevalence of Leptospira renal carriage in cattle. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional study in February 2020 during which livestock were sampled at an abattoir and in an impoverished city district. We analysed blood samples from 279 livestock animals (i.e. cattle, sheep, goats and pigs) using the microscopic agglutination test. Additionally, samples of renal tissue from 100 cattle underwent 16s rRNA (rrs) real‐time PCR analysis. Results: For the 131 cattle, 85 sheep, and 50 goats tested, seroprevalence was 18% (95% confidence interval [CI] [12%, 26%]), 9% (95% CI [4%, 17%] and 2% (95% CI [0%, 9%]), respectively, and most of the seropositive animals were associated with 1:100 titres. All 13 pigs were seronegative. Leptospira DNA was found in the renal tissue of 10% (95% CI [5%, 18%]) of the cattle tested (n = 100). Leptospira borgpetersenii was the main species present (n = 7), but Leptospira interrogans (n = 2) and Leptospira kirschneri (n = 1) were also detected. Various serogroups (Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Sejroe, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, Pyrogenes, Australis and Autumnalis) were detected using microscopic agglutination test without a clear predominance of any of them. Conclusions: These results suggest that abattoir workers and people living in close contact with livestock in poor urban areas are exposed to the risk of Leptospira infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have a higher risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), and those with diagnosed CRC have a poorer prognosis compared with individuals with normal glucose levels. The inhibition of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) channels has been associated with a reduction in tumor proliferation in preclinical studies. We aimed to investigate the impact of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on the outcome of T2DM patients with colorectal cancer. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study comprising adult patients with T2DM and colorectal adenocarcinoma. SGLT2i recipients were matched to non‐SGLT2i recipients in a 1:1 ratio based on age, sex, and cancer stage. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS), and the secondary outcomes were previously reported serious adverse events associated with SGLT2i. Results: We identified 1347 patients with T2DM and colorectal adenocarcinoma, from which 92 patients in the SGLT2i cohort were matched to the non‐SGLT2i cohort. Compared to non‐SGLT2i recipients, SGLT2i recipients had a higher rate of 5‐year OS (86.2% [95% CI: 72.0–93.5] vs 62.3% [95% CI: 50.9–71.8], P = 0.013) and 5‐year PFS (76.6% [95% CI: 60.7–86.7] vs 57.0% [95% CI: 46.2–66.4], P = 0.021). In Cox proportional hazard analyses, SGLT2i were associated with a 50–70% reduction in all‐cause mortality and disease progression. SGLT2i were not associated with an increased risk of serious adverse events. Conclusion: SGLT2i were associated with a higher rate of survival in T2DM patients with colorectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the respiratory rate–oxygenation index (ROX), modified ROX index (ROX‐HR), and the ratio of pulse oximetry saturation (Spo2) to Fio2 (SF) to determine if these indices over time are predictive of outcome in dogs treated with high‐flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC). Design: Retrospective study. Setting: Two university teaching hospitals. Animals: Eighty‐one client‐owned dogs treated with HFNC for hypoxemic respiratory failure. Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: The ROX was defined as the SF divided by the respiratory rate (RR), and the ROX‐HR was defined as the ROX divided by the heart rate multiplied by 100. The overall success rate of HFNC was 44% (n = 36/81). Dogs weaned from HFNC had a significantly higher ROX (P < 0.0001) at 1–3, 5–10, 12, and 15 hours than dogs that failed HFNC. Both the ROX and SF showed excellent discriminatory power in predicting HFNC failure at 6 hours, with an area under receiver operating curve of 0.85 (95% confidence interval: 0.72–0.99; P < 0.002) and 0.86 (95% confidence interval: 0.73–0.99; P < 0.001), respectively. The optimal cutoff values for predicting HFNC failure at 6 hours were a ROX ≤3.68 (sensitivity 72%, specificity 92%) and an SF ≤143 (sensitivity 79%, specificity 93%). Conclusions: These results suggest that similar to people, the ROX and SF are useful predictors of HFNC failure. These indices are easy to measure at the bedside and may have clinical use. Future prospective studies are warranted to confirm the findings and to optimize cutoff values in a larger population of dogs undergoing HFNC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successful treatment of pemphigus foliaceus (PF) often requires a multimodal therapeutic approach. The dog described herein underwent four therapeutic plasma exchange treatments for severe, refractory PF, resulting in a 50% reduction of lesional body surface area. This treatment option should be considered for the management of canine PF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The transition to the ICD‐10‐CM coding system has reduced the utility of hypoglycaemia algorithms based on ICD‐9‐CM diagnosis codes in real‐world studies of antidiabetic drugs. We mapped a validated ICD‐9‐CM hypoglycaemia algorithm to ICD‐10‐CM codes to create an ICD‐10‐CM hypoglycaemia algorithm and assessed its performance in identifying severe hypoglycaemia. Materials and Methods: We assembled a cohort of Medicare patients with DM and linked electronic health record (EHR) data to the University of North Carolina Health System and identified candidate severe hypoglycaemia events from their Medicare claims using the ICD‐10‐CM hypoglycaemia algorithm. We confirmed severe hypoglycaemia by EHR review and computed a positive predictive value (PPV) of the algorithm to assess its performance. We refined the algorithm by removing poor performing codes (PPV ≤0.5) and computed a Cohen's κ statistic to evaluate the agreement of the EHR reviews. Results: The algorithm identified 642 candidate severe hypoglycaemia events, and we confirmed 455 as true severe hypoglycaemia events, PPV of 0.709 (95% confidence interval: 0.672, 0.744). When we refined the algorithm, the PPV increased to 0.893 (0.862, 0.918) and missed <2.42% (<11) true severe hypoglycaemia events. Agreement between reviewers was high, κ = 0.93 (0.89, 0.97). Conclusions: We translated an ICD‐9‐CM hypoglycaemia algorithm to an ICD‐10‐CM version and found its performance was modest. The performance of the algorithm improved by removing poor performing codes at the trade‐off of missing very few severe hypoglycaemia events. The algorithm has the potential to be used to identify severe hypoglycaemia in real‐world studies of antidiabetic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study investigates the potential utility of IKZF1 deletion as an additional high‐risk marker for paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). The prognostic impact of IKZF1 status, in conjunction with minimal/measurable residual disease (MRD), was evaluated within the MRD‐guided TPOG‐ALL‐2013 protocol using 412 newly diagnosed B‐ALL patients aged 1–18. IKZF1 status was determined using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification. IKZF1 deletions, when co‐occurring with CDKN2A, CDKN2B, PAX5 or PAR1 region deletions in the absence of ERG deletions, were termed IKZF1plus. Both IKZF1 deletion (14.6%) and IKZF1plus (7.8%) independently predicted poorer outcomes in B‐ALL. IKZF1plus was observed in 4.1% of Philadelphia‐negative ALL, with a significantly lower 5‐year event‐free survival (53.9%) compared to IKZF1 deletion alone (83.8%) and wild‐type IKZF1 (91.3%) (p < 0.0001). Among patients with Day 15 MRD ≥0.01%, provisional high‐risk patients with IKZF1plus exhibited the worst outcomes in event‐free survival (42.0%), relapse‐free survival (48.0%) and overall survival (72.7%) compared to other groups (p < 0.0001). Integration of IKZF1plus and positive Day 15 MRD identified a subgroup of Philadelphia‐negative B‐ALL with a 50% risk of relapse. This study highlights the importance of assessing IKZF1plus alongside Day 15 MRD positivity to identify patients at increased risk of adverse outcomes, potentially minimizing overtreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the successful use of carbon hemoperfusion and hemodiafiltration in combination with mechanical ventilation (MV) to treat a severe intoxication of 5‐hydroxytryptophan (5‐HTP) in a dog. Case Summary: A dog ingested a minimum of 550 mg/kg of extended‐release 5‐HTP, resulting in serotonin syndrome that progressed to a comatose state and severe hypoventilation requiring MV. Extracorporeal carbon hemoperfusion coupled with hemodiafiltration was performed to remove 5‐HTP from this patient. A carbon hemoperfusion cartridge was placed in series upstream in the extracorporeal circuit from the hemodialyzer. A total of 46.5 L of blood (4.89 L/kg) was processed during a 4.85‐hour treatment. Serial plasma samples were obtained at 0, 60, 90, and 150 minutes during the session and 14 hours after the session. These samples were later analyzed for 5‐HTP and serotonin concentrations. The extraction ratio of 5‐HTP was 93.6%–98.9% through the carbon filter. The dog was weaned from MV within 8 hours after extracorporeal therapy and, after a full recovery, was successfully discharged. New or Unique Information Provided: Despite an extensive review of the available literature, this appears to be the first reported case of using a carbon hemoperfusion, hemodiafiltration, and MV to treat severe serotonin syndrome secondary to 5‐HTP intoxication in a dog. The combination of carbon hemoperfusion and hemodiafiltration can significantly reduce plasma 5‐HTP concentrations after acute intoxication and may serve to decrease morbidity and mortality in patients with severe intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water and energy shortages are interdependent major worldwide issues that cannot be disregarded. In this work, graphene and BaTiO3 are used to synergistically facilitate the self‐assembly of the β‐phase that is known to induce the piezoelectric properties of the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). This leads to a PVDF/graphene‐BaTiO3 nanocomposite with a unique capability of integrating Phra Phrom‐like four functions into one single asymmetric membrane: i) solar evaporation, ii) power generation, iii) piezo‐photodegradation, and iv) self‐cleaning/monitoring for environmental remediation and resources regeneration. The high heat accumulation capability and piezoelectric performance of the membrane enable it to simultaneously achieve a water production rate of 0.99 kgm−2h−1, in compliance with WHO standards, and a maximum power output of 5.73 Wm−2 in simulated natural environments. Upon subjecting the membranes to environmental cleaning, they not only show a 93% dye degradation rate due to the synergistic effect of piezoelectricity and photocatalysis but also resolve the membrane fouling issue, exhibiting ≈200% resistance change compared to the static state. The successful integration of these four functions into one membrane shows the great potential of this work toward a more sustainable and viable water and energy production approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep reinforcement learning (DRL) algorithms are suitable for modeling and controlling complex systems. Methods for controlling chaos, a difficult task, require improvement. In this article, we present a DRL‐based control method that can control a nonlinear chaotic system without any prior knowledge of the system's equations. We use proximal policy optimization (PPO) to train an agent. The environment is a Lorenz chaotic system, and our goal is to stabilize this chaotic system as quickly as possible and minimize the error by adding extra control terms to the chaotic system. Therefore, the reward function accounts for the total triaxial error. The experimental results demonstrated that the trained agent can rapidly suppress chaos in the system, regardless of the system's random initial conditions. A comprehensive comparison of different DRL algorithms indicated that PPO is the most efficient and effective algorithm for controlling the chaotic system. Moreover, different maximum control forces were applied to determine the relationship between the control forces and controller performance. To verify the robustness of the controller, random disturbances were introduced during training and testing, and the empirical results indicated that the agent trained with random noise performed better. The chaotic system has highly nonlinear characteristics and is extremely sensitive to initial conditions, and DRL is suitable for modeling such systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Demoralization can cause impairments across all life aspects of cancer patients. Cancer patients are also vulnerable during their survivorship. The purpose of this review is to examine the risk of demoralization and associated risk factors among cancer survivors who have completed their primary anti‐cancer treatment or time since diagnosis ≥5 years without recurrence. Methods: We searched databases of PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, PsycINFO and ClinicalTrial.gov to identify eligible studies which reported the demoralization level among cancer survivors. A random‐effect meta‐analysis model was used for calculating mean demoralization level. Heterogeneity was evaluated by I2 statistics. Funnel plots and Egger's regression tests were performed for checking publication bias. We used one‐study‐removed method for sensitivity analysis. Subgroup analysis was also done to examine the difference of demoralization level between cancer types. Meta‐regression was performed to reveal risk factors of demoralization. Results: A meta‐analysis of 12 articles involving 2902 cancer survivors was conducted. The mean demoralization score among cancer survivors was 25.98 (95% CI: 23.53–28.43). Higher demoralization level was seen in participants with older age, higher female ratio, higher married/living together status ratio and higher patient health questionnaire‐9 score. The literature review revealed correlations between demoralization and suicide risk, anxiety and quality of life. No consistent correlation between demoralization and post‐traumatic stress symptoms could be seen. Conclusions: High demoralization level is noticed among cancer survivors. Risks for females, elder patients or breast cancer survivors are identified. More longitudinal or interventional studies for cancer survivors' demoralization are expected in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary rheumatoid nodules are rare extra‐articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). They are usually asymptomatic but may form cavities and cause clinical symptoms. These nodules are difficult to differentiate clinically and radiologically from tuberculosis, fungal infection, or lung malignancies. Histopathological studies help in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary nodules in patients with RA; however, an effective treatment for rheumatoid lung nodules has not yet been established. This study reports a case of active RA with interstitial lung disease and a large inflammatory lung nodule that was improved with tofacitinib treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Post‐operative delirium (POD) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality but is bereft of treatments, largely due to our limited understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. We hypothesized that delirium reflects a disturbance in cortical connectivity that leads to altered predictions of the sensory environment. METHODS: High‐density electroencephalogram recordings during an oddball auditory roving paradigm were collected from 131 patients. Dynamic causal modeling (DCM) analysis facilitated inference about the neuronal connectivity and inhibition–excitation dynamics underlying auditory‐evoked responses. RESULTS: Mismatch negativity amplitudes were smaller in patients with POD. DCM showed that delirium was associated with decreased left‐sided superior temporal gyrus (l‐STG) to auditory cortex feedback connectivity. Feedback connectivity also negatively correlated with delirium severity and systemic inflammation. Increased inhibition of l‐STG, with consequent decreases in feed‐forward and feed‐back connectivity, occurred for oddball tones during delirium. DISCUSSION: Delirium is associated with decreased feedback cortical connectivity, possibly resulting from increased intrinsic inhibitory tone. Highlights: Mismatch negativity amplitude was reduced in patients with delirium.Patients with postoperative delirium had increased feedforward connectivity before surgery.Feedback connectivity was diminished from left‐side superior temporal gyrus to left primary auditory sensory area during delirium.Feedback connectivity inversely correlated with inflammation and delirium severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low floodplain wetlands such as the Western Everglades in South Florida are vulnerable to extreme weather events, and their water quality and ecosystem functions vary greatly depending on changes in water levels and discharges. The future (i.e., the mid and late 21st century) climate is projected to result in increased frequency and magnitude of extreme events, which could negatively affect the hydroecological function of the wetlands. Wetland management practices have commonly been implemented to protect wetlands and their functions, but it is not clear whether the current management practices can still be effective in projected climate change scenarios. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the impacts of climate change on the runoff and total phosphorus (TP) of natural (L28 Gap) and managed (L28) wetland watersheds in the Western Everglades. For the assessment, we employed future climate projections made using 29 general circulation models (GCMs) and the Watershed Assessment Model (WAM), a watershed loading model. The WAM was calibrated and validated for the baseline period (2000–2014), and the bias‐corrected climate projections were incorporated into the model to project the runoff discharge and TP loads for the near‐future (2030–2044) and far‐future (2070–2084) periods in two carbon emission scenarios. The modeling results show that the natural wetland watershed would be more vulnerable to projected climate change than the managed wetland watershed. The impact of projected climate change scenarios on daily runoff and TP loads was modulated by water control facilities and practices in the managed watershed, highlighting the significance of watershed management practices for improved water quality under projected climate change. This study demonstrates how the local natural and managed wetland watersheds distinctly respond to the global‐scale changes and emphasizes the role of water management practices in wetland basins, which are expected to help develop effective climate change adaptation plans for improved sustainability of wetland systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loss‐of‐function (LoF) alleles of cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19), which are prevalent in East Asians, are linked to high platelet reactivity (HPR) phenotype and poor prognosis. We aimed to investigate the incremental predictive value of HPR combined with CYP2C19 genotype in predicting outcomes after drug‐eluting stent (DES) implantation. The patients treated with platelet function and genotype‐related long‐term prognosis in drug‐eluting stent (PTRG‐DES) consortium enrolled a total of 13,160 Korean patients treated with DES who had platelet function test (PFT) or CYP2C19 genotype, of which, 6,717 patients with PFT and genotype together were categorized. HPR was defined as VerifyNow ≥ 252 P2Y12 reaction unit. The primary outcome was the incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular event (MACCE) 5 years after treatment. The patients with both HPR and CYP2C19 LoF/LoF had the highest MACCE rates (6.2%) and increased MACCE risk (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.89, 95% confidence interval: 1.20–2.91, P = 0.006) compared with those without both HPR and CYP2C19 LoF/LoF. There was no effect of interaction between HPR and CYP2C19 genotype on the primary outcome (P = 0.424). Adding combined HPR and CYP2C19 genotype to the conventional model had an incremental influence in predicting MACCE and stent thrombosis. Compared to the model including HPR or CYP2C19 genotype alone, a combination model significantly improved the risk stratification for stent thrombosis but not MACCE. In DES‐treated East Asian patients, the combined evaluation of PFT results and CYP2C19 genotyping might improve risk prediction of ischemic events during clopidogrel treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Missing data complicates statistical analyses in multi‐site studies, especially when it is not feasible to centrally pool individual‐level data across sites. We combined meta‐analysis with within‐site multiple imputation for one‐step estimation of the average causal effect (ACE) of a target population comprised of all individuals from all data‐contributing sites within a multi‐site distributed data network, without the need for sharing individual‐level data to handle missing data. We considered two orders of combination and three choices of weights for meta‐analysis, resulting in six approaches. The first three approaches, denoted as RR + metaF, RR + metaR and RR + std, first combined results from imputed data sets within each site using Rubin's rules and then meta‐analyzed the combined results across sites using fixed‐effect, random‐effects and sample‐standardization weights, respectively. The last three approaches, denoted as metaF + RR, metaR + RR and std + RR, first meta‐analyzed results across sites separately for each imputation and then combined the meta‐analysis results using Rubin's rules. Simulation results confirmed very good performance of RR + std and std + RR under various missing completely at random and missing at random settings. A direct application of the inverse‐variance weighted meta‐analysis based on site‐specific ACEs can lead to biased results for the targeted network‐wide ACE in the presence of treatment effect heterogeneity by site, demonstrating the need to clearly specify the target population and estimand and properly account for potential site heterogeneity in meta‐analyses seeking to draw causal interpretations. An illustration using a large administrative claims database is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Priming is an adaptive mechanism that fortifies plant defense by enhancing activation of induced defense responses following pathogen challenge. Microorganisms have signature microbe‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) that induce the primed state. The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) MAMP isolated from the xylem‐limited pathogenic bacterium, Xylella fastidiosa, acts as a priming stimulus in Vitis vinifera grapevines. Grapevines primed with LPS developed significantly less internal tyloses and external disease symptoms than naive vines.Differential gene expression analysis indicated major transcriptomic reprogramming during the priming and postpathogen challenge phases. Furthermore, the number of differentially expressed genes increased temporally and spatially in primed vines, but not in naive vines during the postpathogen challenge phase.Using a weighted gene co‐expression analysis, we determined that primed vines have more genes that are co‐expressed in both local and systemic petioles than naive vines indicating an inherent synchronicity that underlies the systemic response to this vascular pathogen specific to primed plants.We identified a cationic peroxidase, VviCP1, that was upregulated during the priming and postpathogen challenge phases in an LPS‐dependent manner. Transgenic expression of VviCP1 conferred significant disease resistance, thus, demonstrating that grapevine is a robust model for mining and expressing genes linked to defense priming and disease resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age‐related immune dysfunctions, such as decreased T‐cell output, are closely related to pathologies like cancers and lack of vaccine efficacy among the elderly. Engineered fusokine, GIFT‐7, a fusion of interleukin 7 (IL‐7) and GM‐CSF, can reverse aging‐related lymphoid organ atrophy. We generated a GIFT‐7 fusokine tumor vaccine and employed it in aged syngeneic mouse models of glioblastoma and found that peripheral vaccination with GIFT‐7TVax resulted in thymic regeneration and generated durable long‐term antitumor immunity specifically in aged mice. Global cytokine analysis showed increased pro‐inflammatory cytokines including IL‐1β in the vaccinated group that resulted in hyperactivation of dendritic cells. In addition, GIFT‐7 vaccination resulted in increased T‐cell trafficking to the brain and robust Th‐17 long‐term effector memory T‐cell formation. TCR‐seq analysis showed increased productive frequency among detected rearrangements within the vaccinated group. Overall, our data demonstrate that aging immune system can be therapeutically augmented to generate lasting antitumor immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Malignant germ cell tumors (MGCTs) can develop either extracranially or intracranially. Growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) may develop in these patients following chemotherapy. Reports on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of GTS in children with MGCTs are limited. Methods: We retrospectively collected the data, including the clinical characteristics and outcomes of five patients in our series and 93 pediatric patients selected through a literature review of MGCTs. This study aimed to analyze survival outcomes and risk factors for subsequent events in pediatric patients with MGCTs developing GTS. Results: The sex ratio was 1.09 (male/female). In total, 52 patients (53.1%) had intracranial MGCTs. Compared with patients with extracranial GCTs, those with intracranial GCTs were younger, predominantly boys, had shorter intervals between MGCT and GTS, and had GTS mostly occurring over the initial site (all p < 0.001). Ninety‐five patients (96.9%) were alive. However, GTS recurrence (n = 14), GTS progression (n = 9), and MGCT recurrence (n = 19) caused a substantial decrease in event‐free survival (EFS). Multivariate analyses showed that the only significant risk factors for these events were incomplete GTS resection and different locations of GCT and GTS. Patients without any risk had a 5‐year EFS of 78.8% ± 7.8%, whereas those with either risk had 41.7% ± 10.2% (p < 0.001). Conclusion: For patients with high‐risk features, every effort should be made to closely monitor, completely remove, and pathologically prove any newly developed mass to guide relevant treatment. Further studies incorporating the risk factors into treatment strategies may be required to optimize adjuvant therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a novel approach to IR sensing using a narrow band gap semiconductor and the light‐induced barrier lowering (LIBL) mechanism. Lead sulfide quantum dots (PbS QDs) were used as the semiconductor material due to their ideal bandgap energy for IR sensing. The proposed TFT sensor structures with and without a gap between gate and drain were fabricated and demonstrated excellent sensitivity to IR radiation, and therefore providing a cost‐effective and accessible solution for IR sensing, with potential applications in various fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parental communication is still relatively meaningful in Asian families with hierarchical, vertical, and authoritative relationships. Meanwhile, children's pro‐environmental behaviour in emerging Asian nations tends to be passive, leading to a need for intervention from the closest parties, often the parent, whose familial role in green communication has not been examined. This study uses social learning theory to examine the interplay of parent‐like spokespeople and message appeals in affecting young adults' cognitive and emotional responses, which is expected to influence the ad liking and believability of green advertisements and switching intention to green products, such as eco‐friendly straws. A laboratory experiment was conducted with 240 subjects. The results showed that the frame of a father‐like figure conveying a hope appeal generated the greatest enthusiasm and argument quality for young adults. Mother‐like figures speaking a fearful message frame were the best generator for young adults' anger and threat appraisal. Ad liking was significantly impacted only by a mother‐like spokesperson who spoke a fearful appeal mediated by anger and a father‐like spokesperson who delivered a hope appeal mediated by argument quality. Young adults' willingness to switch to eco‐friendly straws was indirectly influenced by the interaction effect of a mother‐like spokesperson and fear appeal type mediated by ad believability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In prostate radiation therapy, recent studies have indicated a benefit in increasing the dose to intraprostatic lesions (IPL) compared with standard whole gland radiation therapy. Such approaches typically aim to deliver a target dose to the IPL(s) with no deliberate effort to modulate the dose within the IPL. Prostate cancers demonstrate intra‐tumor heterogeneity and hence it is hypothesized that further gains in the optimal delivery of radiation therapy can be achieved through modulation of the dose distribution within the tumor. To account for tumor heterogeneity, biologically targeted radiation therapy (BiRT) aims to utilize a voxel‐wise approach to IPL dose prescription by incorporating knowledge of the spatial distribution of tumor characteristics. Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop a workflow for generating voxel‐wise optimal dose prescriptions that maximize patient tumor control probability (TCP), and evaluate the feasibility and benefits of applying this workflow on a cohort of 62 prostate cancer patients. Method: The source data for this proof‐of‐concept study included high resolution histology images annotated with tumor location and grade. Image processing techniques were used to compute voxel‐level cell density distribution maps. An absolute tumor cell distribution was calculated via linearly scaling according to published estimated tumor cell numbers. For the IPLs of each patient, optimal dose prescriptions were obtained via three alternative methods for redistribution of IPL boost doses according to maximization of TCP. The radiosensitivity uncertainties were considered using a truncated log‐normally distributed linear radiosensitivity parameter (αk${\alpha }_k$) and compared with Gleason pattern (GP) dependent radiosensitivity parameters that were derived based on previously published methods. An ensemble machine learning method was implemented to identify patient‐specific features that predict the TCP improvement resulting from dose redistribution relative to a uniform dose distribution. Results: The Gleason pattern‐dependent radiosensitivity parameters were calculated for 20 published prostate cancer α/β${{\alpha}}/{{\beta}}$ ratios. Optimal voxel‐level dose prescriptions were generated for all 62 PCa patients. For all dose redistribution scenarios, the optimal dose distribution always shows a higher (or equivalent) TCP level than the uniform dose distribution. The applied random forest regressor could predict patient‐specific TCP improvement with low root mean square error (≤1.5%) by using total tumor number, volume of IPLs and the standard deviation of tumor cell number among all voxels. Conclusion: Biologically‐optimized redistribution of a boost dose can yield TCP improvement relative to a uniform‐boost dose distribution. Patient‐specific tumor characteristics can be used to predict the likelihood of benefit from a redistribution approach for the individual patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: We compared diagnostic performance, costs, and association with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) of clinical coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) interpretation versus semiautomated approach that use artificial intelligence and machine learning for atherosclerosis imaging‐quantitative computed tomography (AI‐QCT) for patients being referred for nonemergent invasive coronary angiography (ICA). Methods: CCTA data from individuals enrolled into the randomized controlled Computed Tomographic Angiography for Selective Cardiac Catheterization trial for an American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) guideline indication for ICA were analyzed. Site interpretation of CCTAs were compared to those analyzed by a cloud‐based software (Cleerly, Inc.) that performs AI‐QCT for stenosis determination, coronary vascular measurements and quantification and characterization of atherosclerotic plaque. CCTA interpretation and AI‐QCT guided findings were related to MACE at 1‐year follow‐up. Results: Seven hundred forty‐seven stable patients (60 ± 12.2 years, 49% women) were included. Using AI‐QCT, 9% of patients had no CAD compared with 34% for clinical CCTA interpretation. Application of AI‐QCT to identify obstructive coronary stenosis at the ≥50% and ≥70% threshold would have reduced ICA by 87% and 95%, respectively. Clinical outcomes for patients without AI‐QCT‐identified obstructive stenosis was excellent; for 78% of patients with maximum stenosis < 50%, no cardiovascular death or acute myocardial infarction occurred. When applying an AI‐QCT referral management approach to avoid ICA in patients with <50% or <70% stenosis, overall costs were reduced by 26% and 34%, respectively. Conclusions: In stable patients referred for ACC/AHA guideline‐indicated nonemergent ICA, application of artificial intelligence and machine learning for AI‐QCT can significantly reduce ICA rates and costs with no change in 1‐year MACE. Key points: Software platform technology solutions now enable artificial intelligence guided and quantitative cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) for coronary artery plaque quantification and characterization and vascular morphology assessment.As most patients referred for invasive coronary angiography (ICA) are found not to have actionable coronary artery disease, artificial intelligence guided CCTA measures of vascular morphology may allow for improved referral management to ICA in a manner that is safe and lower in costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper mainly discusses the applicability of using soft x‐ray tomography technology to examine the multidimensional structure of metal–organic frameworks, such as their core‐shell and hollow framework, by visually observing their corresponding images in different energy bands by different excitation energies for different elements. The results show that the use of soft x‐ray tomography (SXT) can effectively observe the distribution of metals in the structure, as well as observe the type of hollow pores the metal–organic framework (MOF) possesses. This pioneering evaluation of MOFs via SXT shows excellent performance in the structure identification of multidimensional metal–organic frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The physical intravenous Y‐site compatibility of 15 different medications with highly concentrated neonatal and pediatric parenteral nutrition (PN) compounds is described, using existing and novel methods. Methods: PN formulations were developed based on common prescribing practices in a 400+‐bed freestanding children's hospital. Medications at commonly used pediatric concentrations were mixed in a 1:1 ratio with both pediatric and neonatal PN formulations and incubated at room temperature for 4 h to simulate Y‐site administration. Samples were then analyzed using the light obscuration (LO) technique, as recommended by United States Pharmacopeia (USP) chapter <788>, in addition to novel flow imaging (FI) microscopy and backgrounded membrane imaging (BMI). Physical compatibility was determined using USP <788> particle count limits for all techniques. Results: Most combinations were found to be compatible per USP <788> thresholds. Pediatric PN was incompatible by at least two methods with cisatracurium 2 mg/ml, sildenafil 0.8 mg/ml, furosemide 10 mg/ml, and ketamine 10 mg/ml. Neonatal PN was incompatible by at least two methods with cisatracurium 2 mg/ml and furosemide 10 mg/ml. Overall, results for 20 of the 30 combinations (66%) agreed across all three methods. FI and BMI results agreed for 22 of 30 combinations. LO agreed with FI in 25 of 30 combinations, and BMI and LO results agreed in 23 of 30 combinations. Conclusion: Most combinations tested were found to be compatible across all methods. Novel methods of FI and BMI seem useful to further evaluate LO findings and improve accuracy of particle counts when assessing PN‐medication combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to better understand the effect of non‐covalent weak interactions on molecules, we have explored a variety of weak interactions, such as improper H‐bonding (HB), tetrel bonds (TBs) and halogen bonds, in fluorinated chiral zinc complexes. High resolution neutron diffraction studies revealed a methylene carbon‐hydrogen bond elongation and shortening due to TB and improper HB interactions, respectively. To show the accumulative effects of multiple weak interactions on the C−H bond, three types of tetrel bonds have been carefully examined. We have also shown how C−H bond elongation can be easily offset by forming an improper HB with the H atom from this C−H bond. Non‐covalent interaction and electrostatic potential analysis investigations have been used to affirm the nature of the interactions based on density functional theory (DFT) and other related calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noise produced by human activities has increased in the oceans over the last decades. Whereas most studies have focused on the impact of anthropogenic noise on marine mammals and fishes, those focusing on marine invertebrates are rarer and more recent, especially when considering peri-metamorphic benthic stages, highly sensitive to anthropogenic perturbations. A careful review of the literature reveals a simplistic characterization of the acoustics within the containers used to quantify larval and juvenile responses to noise, thus weakening the conclusions of such works. To address this problem, we developed the Larvosonic system, a laboratory tank equipped with acoustic assets to assess the impacts of noise on young stages of marine invertebrates. We first provide a careful analysis of the tank sound field using different sound types, and we assess the effects of expanded polystyrene units on the sounds emitted by a professional audio system in order to dampen reverberation and resonance. Then, we apply this acoustic calibration to the effects of both pile driving and drilling noises on postlarvae of the scallop bivalve Pecten maximus. Acoustic recordings highlight that diffuser and bass trap components constitute effective underwater sound absorbents, reducing the reflection of the whole frequency bandwidth. Scallop experiments reveal that both type and level of the tested noise influenced postlarval growth, with interactive effects between trophic environment and noise level/spectra. The Larvosonic system thus constitutes an efficient tool for bioacoustics research on bentho-planktonic invertebrate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vat polymerization of ceramic slurries offers a means for producing triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures, which are candidates for artificial trabecular bone replacement therapy. However, structures with relevant pore sizes below 500 μm and porosities above 80% push the limits of current ceramic additive manufacturing capabilities. Herein, printing and postprocessing of TPMS structures with features relevant to bone, specifically, pore sizes from 400 to 1,265 μm, porosities over 75%, and wall thicknesses below 200 μm are addressed. The resolution of several key fundamental challenges includes: (a) adhesion to the build plate by starting the first layer with the highest surface area slice, (b) cleaning complex designs with two centrifugation cycles consistently removing 100% of residual slurry, (c) elimination of contamination from heating elements by sintering hydroxyapatite in a tube furnace, and (d) determining differences in firing shrinkage between designs to allow for targeting specified sintered dimensions. The outcome of this work enables the consistent fabrication of hydroxyapatite TPMS scaffolds (gyroid, trifurcating, clover) with high agreement between the computer‐aided design (CAD), printed, and fired designs in 5 mm cubes and cylinder with 8 mm diameter and 20 mm length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum dots (QDs) are chemically produced materials with a variety of interesting features that can be employed in various applications ranging from light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) to sensors. In this work, we report an infrared QDs‐based LED (IRLED), in which the QDs are treated with ligands and formed a smooth emissive layer of the device. The ligand treatment steps ensure the quality and morphology of the QDs emissive layer. During three weeks, the fabricated IRLED device achieved an equable current, steady electroluminescence (EL) peak of 1197 nm, a wide full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 226 nm, and a high EQE of 9%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I always remember that day: Access to services for survivors of gender-based violence in Ethiopia's Tigray Region. The impact of war on the health system of the Tigray region in Ethiopia: an assessment. We implore the international community of obstetricians and gynaecologists to raise their voices to demand an end to the blockade of humanitarian aid to Tigray. I don't know if they realized I was a person:' rape and other sexual violence in the conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia: London, Amnesty International; 2021, Available from: https://www.amnesty.org/en/documents/afr25/4569/2021/en/ 6 Human Rights Watch. [Extracted from the article]

In this work a conducting electrochemical sensing probe, Cr‐BDC‐NH2@PANI composite material (BDC=1,4‐benzenedicarboxylate), was successfully synthesized by polymerization of conducting polyaniline (PANI) around the Cr‐BDC‐NH2 material. The synthesized composite material was characterized by various analytical techniques. The Cr‐BDC‐NH2@PANI composite was successfully dropped cast on the surface of an inexpensive pencil graphite electrode (PGE) to detect the cadmium ions at trace level. The selectivity of proposed sensor observed towards cadmium ion is due to chelation mechanism operating between cadmium ions and amine groups. Under optimized condition, the proposed sensor is capable of measuring cadmium ions in aqueous as well as in human blood serum, plasma, and various water samples within the range of 0.50‐32.5 μg L−1 with the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.20 μg L−1. The Cr‐BDC‐NH2@PANI composite material modified sensor shows high affinity and no interference with real samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of microfinance services on the socio‐economic welfare of urban households in Sabah, which is considered as the poorest state in Malaysia. The data were collected from recipients of microfinance services through self‐administered questionnaire and were analyzed using Smart Partial Least Squares (PLS). The results of this study show that microcredit, microinsurance, savings, training, and social intermediation service have significant effects on socio‐economic welfare of urban households in Sabah. The empirical findings can be used as a guideline for microfinance institutions to provide the best services that will reduce vulnerability of the households in Sabah. It can also assist the government to provide the best microfinance blueprints in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the controversial origin of domestic sheep (Ovis aries) using large samples of contemporary and ancient domestic individuals and their closest wild relatives: the Asiatic mouflon (Ovis gmelini), the urial (Ovis vignei) and the argali (Ovis ammon). A phylogeny based on mitochondrial DNA, including 213 new cytochrome‐b sequences of wild Ovism confirmed that O. gmelini is the maternal ancestor of sheep and precluded mtDNA contributions from O. vignei (and O. gmelini × O. vignei hybrids) to domestic lineages. We also produced 54 new control region sequences showing shared haplogroups (A, B, C and E) between domestic sheep and wild O. gmelini which localized the domestication center in eastern Anatolia and central Zagros, excluding regions further east where exclusively wild haplogroups were found. This overlaps with the geographic distribution of O. gmelini gmelini, further suggesting that the maternal origin of domestic sheep derives from this subspecies. Additionally, we produced 57 new CR sequences of Neolithic sheep remains from a large area covering Anatolia to Europe, showing the early presence of at least three mitochondrial haplogroups (A, B and D) in Western colonization routes. This confirmed that sheep domestication was a large‐scale process that captured diverse maternal lineages (haplogroups). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria and intermediate filament (IF) accumulations often occur during imbalanced axonal transport leading to various types of neurological diseases. It is still poorly understood whether a link between neuronal IFs and mitochondrial mobility exist. In Caenorhabditis elegans, among the 11 cytoplasmic IF family proteins, IFB‐1 is of particular interest as it is expressed in a subset of sensory neurons. Depletion of IFB‐1 leads to mild dye‐filling and significant chemotaxis defects as well as reduced life span. Sensory neuron development is affected and mitochondrial transport is slowed down leading to reduced densities of these organelles. Mitochondria tend to cluster in neurons of IFB‐1 mutants likely independent of the fission and fusion machinery. Oxygen consumption and mitochondrial membrane potential is measurably reduced in worms carrying mutations in the ifb‐1 gene. Membrane potential also seems to play a role in transport such as carbonyl cyanide p‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone treatment led to increased directional switching of mitochondria. Mitochondria co‐localize with IFB‐1 in worm neurons and appear in a complex with IFB‐1 in pull‐down assays. In summary, we propose a model in which neuronal IFs may serve as critical (transient) anchor points for mitochondria during their long‐range transport in neurons for steady and balanced transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]