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Hyperkalaemia is an electrolyte imbalance that impairs muscle function and myocardial excitability, and can potentially lead to fatal arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. The prevalence of hyperkalaemia is estimated to be 6%–7% worldwide and 7%–10% in Asia. Hyperkalaemia frequently affects patients with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, and diabetes mellitus, particularly those receiving treatment with renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors. Both hyperkalaemia and interruption of RAAS inhibitor therapy are associated with increased risks for cardiovascular events, hospitalisations, and death, highlighting a clinical dilemma in high‐risk patients. Conventional potassium‐binding resins are widely used for the treatment of hyperkalaemia; however, caveats such as the unpalatable taste and the risk of gastrointestinal side effects limit their chronic use. Recent evidence suggests that, with a rapid onset of action and improved gastrointestinal tolerability, novel oral potassium binders (e.g., patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate) are alternative treatment options for both acute and chronic hyperkalaemia. To optimise the care for patients with hyperkalaemia in the Asia–Pacific region, a multidisciplinary expert panel was convened to review published literature, share clinical experiences, and ultimately formulate 25 consensus statements, covering three clinical areas: (i) risk factors of hyperkalaemia and risk stratification in susceptible patients; (ii) prevention of hyperkalaemia for at‐risk individuals; and (iii) correction of hyperkalaemia for at‐risk individuals with cardiorenal disease. These statements were expected to serve as useful guidance in the management of hyperkalaemia for health care providers in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental hazards, especially particulates, and microbiological pollutants, have resulted in significant negative impacts on human health. In this study, 3D biodegradable cellulose filters were made from nanocellulose and tested for the removal efficiency of airborne particulates. Cellulose was first extracted from palm empty fruit bunches (EFBs) using green Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) under moderate temperature and then homogenized at high pressure to produce cellulose at the nanoscale size. Three types of renewable choline chloride (ChCl)‐based DESs were used: lactic acid, 1,3‐butanediol, and oxalic acid. The maximum cellulose yield from DES pretreatment was 38.78 % based on raw EFB (100 % cellulose yield based on cellulose in EFB) with ChBu60 C and the maximum nanocellulose yield was 68.49 % based on cellulose in EFB with ChLa80 C after 12‐pass high pressure homogenization. The cellulose air filter was fabricated using tert‐butyl alcohol (tBuOH) solvent exchanged under freeze‐drying conditions and characterized by different state‐of‐the‐art techniques. It was shown that the ChBu80 C filter had the lowest pressure drop (10.16 mmH2O or 2.07 mmH2O cm−2) and the maximum particle filtration efficiency (32.51 % for 0.1 μm and 93.63 % for 1.0 μm particles). The process simulation and techno‐economic analysis were performed for nanocellulose production and air filter fabrication to select the most feasible technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Demands for myopia management are rising. A web‐based tool that allows home‐performed self‐assessments of visual acuity (VA) and refractive error may enable hybrid care pathways and aid in identifying those with deteriorating visual performance. The tool has been validated in adult populations, but has yet to be evaluated in children. This study compared home‐performed VA and refraction self‐assessments to conventional measurements obtained at the clinic in a population of myopic children. Methods: Myopic children aged ≥6 years old were invited to perform web‐based eye tests at home, assisted by a parent. At two myopia control clinics, they also underwent measurements of VA using a Snellen chart and refractive error using cycloplegic autorefraction. Agreement between the tests, repeatability of the web‐based test and associations between clinical characteristics and web‐based test accuracy were evaluated. Results: A total of 147 children were enrolled, of whom 116 (51% male; mean age 13 ± 3 years; mean spherical equivalent refraction (SEQ) −5.58 ± 3.05) performed the web‐based tests at home. Overall, the home‐performed VA self‐assessment and the Snellen chart assessment at the clinic agreed well (mean difference 0.03 ± 0.11 logMAR). A significant proportional bias was identified (β 0.65, p < 0.001), indicating underestimated web‐based VA scores when the child's vision declined. The sensitivity to detect VA poorer than 0.10 logMAR was 94%; the specificity was 71%. The web‐based refractive error algorithm measured more myopia progression compared to clinic observations (mean difference SEQ 0.40 ± 0.51 dioptres). Age, sex or use of atropine drops were not significantly associated with test accuracy. Conclusions: The web‐based test for self‐assessing vision, performed at home by children with assistance from their parents, yielded VA scores with a precision similar to Snellen chart testing conducted in a clinical setting. However, the web‐based refractive error algorithm overestimated myopia progression and requires recalibration for this specific age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Equine Veterinary Journal is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Long‐term cognitive impairment is common in cardiac arrest survivors. Screening to identify patients at risk is recommended. Functional magnetic resonance brain imaging (fMRI) holds potential to contribute to prediction of cognitive outcomes. In this study, we investigated the possible value of early changes in resting‐state networks for predicting short and long‐term cognitive functioning of cardiac arrest survivors. We performed a prospective multicenter cohort study in cardiac arrest survivors in three Dutch hospitals. Resting‐state fMRI scans were acquired within a month after cardiac arrest. We primarily focused on functional connectivity within the default‐mode network (DMN) and salience network (SN), and additionally explored functional connectivity in seven other networks. Cognitive outcome was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) during hospital admission and at 3 and 12 months, and by neuropsychological examination (NPE) at 12 months. We tested mixed effects models to evaluate the value of connectivity within the networks for predicting global cognitive outcomes at the three time points, and long‐term cognitive outcomes in the memory, attention, and executive functioning domains. We included 80 patients (age 60 ± 11 years, 72 (90%) male). MoCA scores increased significantly between hospital admission and 3 months (ΔMoCAhospital‐3M = 2.89, p < 0.01), but not between 3 and 12 months (ΔMoCA3M–12M = 0.38, p = 0.52). Connectivity within the DMN, SN, and dorsal attention network (DAN) was positively related to global cognitive functioning during hospital admission (βDMN = 0.85, p = 0.03; βSN = 1.48, p < 0.01; βDAN = 0.96, p = 0.01), but not at 3 and 12 months. Network connectivity was also unrelated to long‐term memory, attention, or executive functioning. Resting‐state functional connectivity in the DMN, SN, and DAN measured in the first month after cardiac arrest is related to short‐term global, but not long‐term global or domain‐specific cognitive performance of survivors. These results do not support the value of functional connectivity within these RSNs for prediction of long‐term cognitive performance after cardiac arrest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non‐surgical (reversible) male contraception methods, when approved for general clinical application, should be made available to all interested men aged 18 50 years in good general health regardless of their semen parameters. In the preliminary workup, a complete personal and family history aimed at identifying specific conditions that may potentially increase the risks for adverse effects (associated with testosterone replacement) is advisable but a general or andrological examination is not required, unless indicated by the history. Baseline body weight, blood pressure and haemoglobin should be recorded for the purpose of future monitoring. While risks and benefits of vasectomy have been well established, appropriately nuanced patient counselling and assessment are essential for ensuring a satisfactory outcome of vasectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Mother‐to‐child‐transmission (MTCT) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) may still occur despite birth‐dose HBV vaccinations when pregnant women are positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) with high viral loads (HBV DNA ≥ 200 000 IU/mL). A pilot integrated model nurse clinic (IMNC) was started in 2020 to implement the pre‐emptive antiviral therapy with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). We aimed to evaluate the performance of IMNC on uptake of TDF. Methods: This was a territory‐wide retrospective cohort of all consecutive HBsAg‐positive women of child‐bearing age with pregnancy records in public hospitals 2019–2022. Demographic characteristics, liver biochemistries and virologic parameters, and TDF use were collected. Concurrently, data from a prospective audit in Union Hospital, the private hospital with the highest number of deliveries in Hong Kong, from June 2022 to May 2023 were compared. Results: The prevalence rate of HBV DNA ≥ 200 000 IU/mL in pregnant women with available HBV DNA records was 29.2% (66/226) in 2019, 27.3% (99/363) in 2020, 15.9% (125/784) in 2021 and 17.2% (117/679) in 2022 (p <.001), out of 2052 pregnant women who had their HBV DNA checked within 1 year prior to delivery. An increasing uptake rate of TDF by highly viraemic pregnant women (i.e. ≥ 200 000 IU/mL) was noted after the commencement of IMNC in public hospitals, with 67% (45/67) in 2019, 83% (88/106) in 2020, 91% (117/128) in 2021 and 89% (149/167) in 2022. Moreover, all highly viraemic pregnant women from Union Hospital received TDF. Continuous use of TDF was associated with a reduced risk of postpartum biochemical flare. Conclusions: IMNC increases the uptake of antiviral treatment in pregnant women at risk of MTCT of HBV. IMNC contributes to hepatitis elimination through a structured care plan to prevent MTCT of HBV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological characteristics were measured for barchan dunes on Earth (2,686 dunes in 30 barchan fields) and Mars (720 dunes in 10 barchan fields) using satellite images. The data were used to (a) develop a new barchan classification system; (b) compare characteristics of barchans on Earth and Mars; and (c) assess whether barchans, in bulk, display allometric or scale‐invariant characteristics. Dimensional metrics were obtained for the width and length of barchan bodies, the width and length of barchans including the horns, and the length of each horn. Dimensionless metrics were derived for the ratios of the body width to the width between the tips of the horns (width ratio), the length of the entire barchan to the length of the body (length ratio), and the length of the longer horn to the shorter horn (symmetry ratio). The width, length, and symmetry ratios were used to classify barchans into eight types and compare the characteristics of their distributions on the two planets. From this analysis, it was established that, statistically, barchans on Earth are distinctive from those on Mars based on the morphometrics, with terrestrial barchans being, on average, of smaller size and more often symmetrical, while Martian barchans more often have convergent horns that are short relative to the central dune body and are more often asymmetrical. The analysis further reveals that barchan planform morphology can be considered scale‐invariant, and we argue that body width is the most appropriate measure representing barchan size. Plain Language Summary: Crescent‐shaped sand dunes (barchans) are widely found on Earth and Mars. Relative variations in the shape of these bedforms are thought to reflect differences in the planetary sand transport environment in terms of sand flux magnitudes, transport modes, and wind climate (speeds and directional variability). Comparing the shapes of barchans on Mars with those on Earth can generate hypotheses on how and why sand transport conditions and dune formation under the Martian atmosphere may be different. Satellite imagery analysis of 3,406 barchan dunes on both planets yields insights on planform dimensions (width and length of the dune body, lengths and divergence of the horns) as well as three shape indices (Width Ratio, Length Ratio, Symmetry Ratio) that were used to derive a classification of eight barchan types. Analysis shows that average barchan planform geometry displays fixed proportions over several orders of magnitude in size (scale‐invariance). Significant relative differences are apparent between the two planets, with barchans on Mars generally being much larger in absolute size but having shorter, more convergent and asymmetric horns than barchans on Earth. The study further suggests that the transverse width of the dune body is the best measurement to reflect the overall size of a barchan. Key Points: A classification of barchan types is derived by applying three morphometric indices to 3,406 dunes on Earth and MarsBarchan planform morphology can be considered a scale‐invariant property over orders of magnitudeDifferences in relative morphology reflect differences in planetary sand transport conditions and dune formation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Curiosity Rover has been exploring the Gale Crater using the on‐board Navigation Camera to monitor the line‐of‐sight (LOS) dust extinction within the crater. Previous studies of the line‐of‐sight extinction have shown an annual trend where a minimum in extinction occurs around Ls = 100° and a maximum occurs around Ls = 300°. However, past studies have been constrained to images acquired only between 10:00 and 14:00 local time, limiting our understanding of the variation of dust extinction in Gale Crater throughout the day. Here, using a method that corrects for variable lighting geometry, we reanalyze the line‐of‐sight images captured throughout the mission to include images acquired in the early morning and late afternoon. Additionally, we update the line‐of‐sight record to include over 1,000 additional sols of the mission through sol 3,663, which updates our record of extinction in Gale to the end of Mars Year 36—a period of almost 5.5 Mars Years. Using images taken throughout the sol, we examine the diurnal trend in dust extinction, where a maximum is seen around solar noon. This diurnal trend is observed throughout the year, with a larger diurnal variation observed during the southern summer. Additionally, the geographic homogeneity in dust loading is quantified, with higher dust loading observed in the western portion of the line‐of‐sight images, corresponding with the north‐western portion of the crater rim. These observations suggest that dust lifting from the surface and vertical mixing are factors in the diurnal, seasonal, and geographic dynamics observed in the extinctions. Plain Language Summary: The Curiosity Rover has used its Navigation Camera to image the northern rim of Gale Crater for over 3,000 martian days. These images are used to calculate the amount of airborne dust between the rover and the crater rim. Past studies using these images found that the amount of dust was lowest during southern‐hemisphere winter and highest during southern‐hemisphere summer. In this work, a new method to find the amount of dust was used, allowing us to use images taken throughout the day for the first time. The entire set of crater rim images was reanlayzed using the new method, including new images captured up to sol 3,663. We find a daily cycle, where the amount of dust in the air is lowest in the morning and evening, and highest around noon. In addition, there is more airborne dust between the rover and the crater rim on the western side of the image compared with the center and eastern side. This suggests that dust is moving within the Gale Crater on short timescales, where dust lifting from the surface likely plays a key role in the diurnal trend, in combination with air outside the crater mixing with air within the crater. Key Points: The line‐of‐sight dust extinction is calculated through 3,663 sols using the Mars Science Laboratory's Navigation CameraDiurnally, the dust extinction peaks at solar noon, with lower values in the morning and eveningThe diurnal variation is higher during the dustier southern summer and lower during the southern winter when dust extinction is at a minimum [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Global Change Biology is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: People with high blood pressure have reduced sensitivity to pain, known as blood pressure hypoalgesia. One proposed mechanism for this is altered baroreceptor sensitivity. In healthy volunteers, stimulating the carotid baroreceptors causes reduced sensitivity to acute pain; however, this effect may be confounded by a rise in blood pressure due to baroreflex stimulation. The present study tests whether baroreceptor unloading contributes to the physiological mechanism of blood pressure‐related hypoalgesia. Methods: In the present study, pain perception to thermal stimulation of the forearm was studied in 20 healthy volunteers during baroreceptor unloading by lower body negative pressure (LBNP) at −5 and −20 mmHg. Blood pressure and heart rate were measured continuously throughout. To address issues relating to stimulation order, the sequence of LBNP stimulation was counterbalanced across participants. Results: Increased heart rate was observed at a LBNP of −20 mmHg, but not −5 mmHg, but neither stimulus had an effect on blood pressure. There was no change in warm or cold sensory detection thresholds, heat or cold pain thresholds nor perceived pain from a 30s long thermal heat stimulus during LBNP. Conclusion: Therefore, baroreceptor unloading with maintained systemic blood pressure did not alter pain perception. The current study does not support the hypothesis that an altered baroreflex may underlie the physiological mechanism of blood pressure‐related hypoalgesia. Significance: This work provides evidence that, when measured in normotensive healthy young adults, the baroreflex response to simulated hypovolaemia did not lead to reduced pain sensitivity (known as blood pressure hypoalgesia). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Splash functions delineate the intricate interaction between wind‐driven particles and the bed. However, due to limitations in measurement methods, achieving a comprehensive understanding of splash functions remains challenging. In this study, we utilized a high‐speed system and particle trajectory tracking algorithm to reconstruct 857 collision events involving natural sand particles obtained from field samples and artificial glass microspheres interacting with a bed composed of analogous particles in a wind tunnel. During the experiments, the ratio of the wind shear velocity (u*) to the impact threshold (u*ti) consistently ranged between approximately 1.22 and 1.79. Our findings indicate that the impact angle remains independent of both impact velocity and particle size, maintaining an approximate value of 10.5 ± 6.5°. The evaluation of splash functions depends on the criterion used to define ejection, that is, the ratio of the centroid's height of the liftoff particles to their particle size (H/d). Additionally, at the same critical height (H/d = 1.5), our splash functions show differences of varying degrees from previous experiments and theoretical studies performed under no wind conditions. We believe that the main reason for these differences may be that the energy exchange between the bed surface and the airflow increases the looseness of the large‐particle (>0.1 mm) bed surface. These findings hold significant implications for accurately modeling sand‐bed collisions in natural environments. Plain Language Summary: The interaction mechanism between natural sand and the bed within the aeolian flow yields crucial insights into explaining the initiation of sand or dust emission. Due to the extremely low airflow velocity near the loose bed surface, previous studies have elucidated the interaction relationship between sand and the bed through experiments and theoretical studies conducted under no wind conditions. In our study, we observed a large number of particle‐bed collision processes within the saturated aeolian flow through high‐speed cameras and particle trajectory tracking algorithms and contributed previously unexplored insights into the interaction mechanism between natural sand and the bed. We derived coupling relation functions between key movement parameters (velocity, angle and number) of liftoff particles and their relative height above the bed, as well as the velocity at which incident particles reach the bed surface. Consequently, our findings will be pertinent for future modeling efforts aimed at understanding the interactions between transported particles and the bed in models of wind‐blown sand transport. Key Points: Eight hundred and fifty seven collision events in airflow were investigated through wind tunnel experiments utilizing high‐speed photography on a loose surfaceThe effect of the criterion used for defining ejection on splash functions was investigatedThe splash functions in airflow deviate to different extents from theoretical simulation and experimental results under windless conditions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We compared performance of the Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method (RUCAM) with multidisciplinary expert panel review in identifying a drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) due to antituberculosis therapy (ATT) and/or antiretroviral therapy (ART). Methods: Cases were drawn from a prospective registry of hospitalised adults with suspected DILI due to ATT and/or ART in Cape Town, South Africa. Participants had to fulfil American Thoracic Society criteria for ATT interruption (alanine transaminase [ALT] ≥5 times upper limit of normal [ULN]/ALT ≥3 times [ULN] and symptomatic). Causality assessment by expert panel review served as reference standard. The panel ranked potentially implicated drugs as certain, probable, possible or unlikely causes guided by World Health Organization Uppsala Monitoring Centre criteria. The RUCAM was performed for each potentially implicated drug. We calculated sensitivity and specificity of the RUCAM in identifying a probable/certain drug cause for liver injury. Results: We included 48 participants. All were people with HIV (PWH). Twenty‐seven were on concomitant ART and ATT, with a median of six potentially hepatotoxic drugs per case. Sensitivity and specificity of the RUCAM in identifying a probable/certain drug cause of liver injury compared with expert panel review was 7% and 100% respectively. Implicated drugs (times ranked probable/certain by panel) were isoniazid (18/0), pyrazinamide (17/0), rifampicin (15/1), efavirenz (6/4) and lopinavir/ritonavir (1/0). Conclusions: PWH with liver injury received multiple potentially implicated drugs, which may increase liver injury risk and complicate causality assessment. Compared with expert panel review, the RUCAM had low sensitivity in detecting probable or certain drug causes of liver injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precise regulation of sarcomeric contraction is essential for normal cardiac function. The heart must generate sufficient force to pump blood throughout the body, but either inadequate or excessive force can lead to dysregulation and disease. Myosin regulatory light chain (RLC) is a thick‐filament protein that binds to the neck of the myosin heavy chain. Post‐translational phosphorylation of RLC (RLC‐P) by myosin light chain kinase is known to influence acto‐myosin interactions, thereby increasing force production and Ca2+‐sensitivity of contraction. Here, we investigated the role of RLC‐P on cardiac structure and function as sarcomere length and [Ca2+] were altered. We found that at low, non‐activating levels of Ca2+, RLC‐P contributed to myosin head disorder, though there were no effects on isometric stress production and viscoelastic stiffness. With increases in sarcomere length and Ca2+‐activation, the structural changes due to RLC‐P become greater, which translates into greater force production, greater viscoelastic stiffness, slowed myosin detachment rates and altered nucleotide handling. Altogether, these data suggest that RLC‐P may alter thick‐filament structure by releasing ordered, off‐state myosin. These more disordered myosin heads are available to bind actin, which could result in greater force production as Ca2+ levels increase. However, prolonged cross‐bridge attachment duration due to slower ADP release could delay relaxation long enough to enable cross‐bridge rebinding. Together, this work further elucidates the effects of RLC‐P in regulating muscle function, thereby promoting a better understanding of thick‐filament regulatory contributions to cardiac function in health and disease. Key points: Myosin regulatory light chain (RLC) is a thick‐filament protein in the cardiac sarcomere that can be phosphorylated (RLC‐P), and changes in RLC‐P are associated with cardiac dysfunction and disease.This study assesses how RLC‐P alters cardiac muscle structure and function at different sarcomere lengths and calcium concentrations.At low, non‐activating levels of Ca2+, RLC‐P contributed to myofilament disorder, though there were no effects on isometric stress production and viscoelastic stiffness.With increases in sarcomere length and Ca2+‐activation, the structural changes due to RLC‐P become greater, which translates into greater force production, greater viscoelastic stiffness, slower myosin detachment rate and altered cross‐bridge nucleotide handling rates.This work elucidates the role of RLC‐P in regulating muscle function and facilitates understanding of thick‐filament regulatory protein contributions to cardiac function in health and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: Despite a wide spectrum of contraceptive methods for women, the unintended pregnancy rate remains high (45% in the US), with 50% resulting in abortion. Currently, 20% of global contraceptive use is male‐directed, with a wide variation among countries due to limited availability and lack of efficacy. Worldwide studies indicate that >50% of men would opt to use a reversible method, and 90% of women would rely on their partner to use a contraceptive. Additional reasons for novel male contraceptive methods to be available include the increased life expectancy, sharing the reproductive risks among partners, social issues, the lack of pharma industry involvement and the lack of opinion makers advocating for male contraception. Aim: The present guidelines aim to review the status regarding male contraception, the current state of the art to support the clinical practice, recommend minimal requirements for new male contraceptive development and provide and grade updated, evidence‐based recommendations from the European Society of Andrology (EAA) and the American Society of Andrology (ASA). Methods: An expert panel of academicians appointed by the EAA and the ASA generated a consensus guideline according to the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system. Results: Sixty evidence‐based and graded recommendations were produced on couple‐centered communication, behaviors, barrier methods, semen analysis and contraceptive efficacy, physical agents, surgical methods, actions before initiating male contraception, hormonal methods, non‐hormonal methods, vaccines, and social and ethical considerations. Conclusion: As gender roles transform and gender equity is established in relationships, the male contribution to family planning must be facilitated. Efficient and safe male‐directed methods must be evaluated and introduced into clinical practice, preferably reversible, either hormonal or non‐hormonal. From a future perspective, identifying new hormonal combinations, suitable testicular targets, and emerging vas occlusion methods will produce novel molecules and products for male contraception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon dots (CDs) are novel carbon‐based luminescent materials with wide‐ranging applications in biosensing, bioimaging, drug transportation, optical devices, and beyond. Their advantageous attributes, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, antioxidant activity, photostability, small particle size (<10 nm), and strong light absorption and excitation across a broad range of wavelengths, making them promising candidates in the field of photodynamic therapy (PDT) as photosensitizers (PSs). Further enhancements in functionality are imperative to enhance the effectiveness of CDs in PDT applications, notwithstanding their inherent benefits. Recently, doping agents and solvents have been demonstrated to improve CDs' optical properties, solubility, cytotoxicity, and organelle targeting efficiency. These improvements result from modifications to the CDs' carbon skeleton matrices, functional groups on the surface state, and chemical structures. This review discusses the modification of CDs with heteroatom dopants, dye dopants, and solvents to improve their physicochemical and optical properties for PDT applications. The correlations between the surface chemistry, functional groups, the structure of the CDs, and their optical characteristics toward quantum yield, redshift feature, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, have also been discussed. Finally, the progressive trends for the use of CDs in PDT applications are also addressed in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary This mixed‐methods study aimed to explore factors contributing to therapeutic inertia among people living with obesity in Canada from the perspective of general/family practitioners (GP/FPs). One‐on‐one interviews and online surveys guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework were conducted. A total of 20 general/family practitioners were interviewed and 200 general/family practitioners were surveyed. Key findings from interviews were used to guide the development of the survey. Spearman's correlation analysis evaluated the association between general/family practitioners theme domain scores and their familiarity with the 2020 Canadian Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines. The 200 general/family practitioners surveyed provided representation across Canada, with diversity in age, background, and gender. The most prominent domains related to therapeutic inertia that were positively influenced by familiarity with Clinical Practice Guidelines were Beliefs about Capabilities (rs = .27; p < .01), Skills (rs = .23; p < .01), Behavioural Regulation (rs = .24; p < .01) and Emotions (rs = .23; p < .01). Irrespective of their familiarity with Clinical Practice Guidelines, most general/family practitioners reported that environmental and contextual barriers impact obesity management. Particularly, while financial barriers were reported by participants regardless of Clinical Practice Guidelines familiarity, general/family practitioners familiar with Clinical Practice Guidelines more often reported having time to discuss obesity management with patients. This study identified perceptions, resource and training considerations that contribute to healthcare decision‐making and therapeutic inertia in obesity management among general/family practitioners and highlighted key areas to target with interventions in primary care to facilitate obesity management, which should be multi‐faceted, with a focus on incorporating obesity education into healthcare providers training programs and improving systemic and financial support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Timely detection and diagnosis of dementia are beneficial for providing appropriate, anticipatory care and preventing acute situations. However, initiating diagnostic testing is a complex and dynamic process that requires general practitioners (GPs) to balance competing priorities. Previously identified barriers, such as a lack of time, knowledge, and resources, may not fully represent the challenges involved in this process. Therefore, this study aimed to examine GPs' more implicit considerations on starting the diagnostic trajectory for dementia. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using semi‐structured interviews with 14 Dutch GPs who were purposively selected through maximum variation sampling. The interview transcripts were inductively analyzed in multiple rounds by a multidisciplinary research team using thematic analysis. Results: GPs' considerations on starting the diagnostic trajectory for dementia can be summarized in three main themes that are interconnected: (1) 'the presumed patient's willingness', that is, facing a dilemma of wanting to respect patient autonomy in cases of denial or an absence of a diagnostic request, while at the same time identifying a problem and feeling the urgency to act; (2) 'the GP's attempt not to harm', that is, balancing between not wanting to harm the patient and/or relatives with the burdensome label of dementia and with the possible negative consequences of a late diagnosis; and (3) 'time, trust, and interprofessional collaboration influence timeliness of diagnostic work‐up', that is, time available for consultations, time as a diagnostic factor, GP's diagnostic confidence, and trustful physician–patient relationship. Conclusions: This study revealed that important ethical dilemmas regarding patient autonomy and the principle of doing no harm lie behind practical GP barriers to initiating diagnostic testing for dementia. Time, trust, and interprofessional collaboration were found to facilitate GPs in determining the right decision and timing with each individual patient and their relatives. Future research could explore the value of diagnostic decision aids that explicitly involve patients and their relatives in this balancing act. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The release of biological control agents has been an important means of controlling invasive species for over 150 years. While these releases have led to the sustainable control of over 250 invasive pest and weed species worldwide, a minority have caused environmental harm. A growing recognition of the risks of biological control led to a focus on risk assessment beginning in the 1990s along with a precipitous decline in releases. While this new focus greatly improved the safety of biological control, it came at the cost of lost opportunities to solve environmental problems associated with invasive species. A framework that incorporates benefits and risks of biological control is thus needed to understand the net environmental effects of biological control releases. We introduce such a framework, using native biodiversity as the common currency for both benefits and risks. The model is based on interactions among four categories of organisms: (1) the biological control agent, (2) the invasive species (pest or weed) targeted by the agent, (3) one or more native species that stand to benefit from the control of the target species, and (4) one or more native species that are at risk of being harmed by the released biological control agent. Conservation values of the potentially benefited and harmed native species are incorporated as well, and they are weighted according to three axes: vulnerability to extinction, the ecosystem services provided, and cultural significance. Further, we incorporate the potential for indirect risks to native species, which we consider will result mainly from the ecological process of agent enrichment that may occur if the agent exploits but does not control the target pest or weed. We illustrate the use of this framework by retrospectively analyzing the release of the vedalia beetle, Novius (= Rodolia) cardinalis, to control the cottony cushion scale, Icerya purchasi, in the Galapagos Islands. While the framework is particularly adaptable to biological control releases in natural areas, it can also be used in managed settings, where biological control protects native species through the reduction of pesticide use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Torque Teno Virus (TTV) is a non‐pathogenic anellovirus, highly prevalent in healthy populations. Variations in its viral load have been associated with states of diminished immunity, as occurs after organ transplantation. It is hypothesized that TTV‐load might be used as a diagnostic tool to guide prescription and dosing of immunosuppressive drugs. Not much is known about the effects of combined immunosuppressive drugs on TTV replication in renal transplantation. Belatacept was introduced to counter side‐effects of calcineurin inhibitors (CNI). It was never widely adopted, mainly because its association with increased risk of rejection. To investigate the differential effects of a regimen based on calcineurin inhibitors versus belatacept on TTV‐loads, we measured TTV‐levels in 105 patients from two randomized controlled trials in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). We observed that time after transplantation was inversely related to TTV‐levels of patients that remained on a CNI‐containing regime, whereas this decline over time was diminished after conversion to belatacept. In addition, a correlation with tacrolimus‐trough levels and age were found. Our study is the first report on the impact of conversion from CNI to belatacept on TTV‐levels in KTR. In conclusion, the time‐related decline in TTV‐levels is mitigated after conversion from CNI to belatacept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We show that in search markets an influencer who recommends a product to her followers improves consumer surplus and total welfare despite the firm paying for her recommendation. As consumers learn their value for the product upon search, they will not buy at the recommended firm if they learn their value is low. The threat of search incentivizes firms to offer the influencer a financial contract involving a commission and incentivizes the influencer to be honest in her recommendation. Provided the influencer's search cost is not too high, she also has an incentive to acquire information and give informative recommendations. These informative equilibria are more difficult to sustain if influencers compete with each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Arase satellite observed the precipitation of monoenergetic electrons accelerated from a very high altitude above 32,000 km altitude on 16 September 2017. The event was selected in the period when the high‐angular resolution channel of the electron detector looked at pitch angles within ∼5° from the ambient magnetic field direction, and thereby was the first to examine the detailed distribution of electron flux near the energy‐dependent loss cone at such high altitudes. The potential energy below the satellite estimated from the observed energy‐dependence of the loss cone was consistent with the energy of the upgoing ion beams, indicating that ionospheric ions were accelerated by a lower‐altitude acceleration region. The accelerated electrons inside the loss cone carried a significant net field‐aligned current (FAC) density corresponding to ionospheric‐altitude FAC of up to ∼3μA/m2. Based on the anisotropy of the accelerated electrons, we estimated the height of the upper boundary of the acceleration region to be >∼2 RE above the satellite. The height distribution of the acceleration region below the satellite, estimated from the frequency of auroral kilometric radiation, was ∼4,000–13,000 km altitude, suggesting that the very‐high‐altitude acceleration region was separated from the lower acceleration region. Additionally, we observed time domain structure (TDS) electric fields on a subsecond time scale with a thin FAC indicated by magnetic deflections. Such a TDS may be generated by the formation of double layers in the magnetotail, and its potential drop could significantly contribute (∼40%–60%) to the parallel energization of precipitating auroral electrons. Plain Language Summary: The auroral arc is produced by electrons in the magnetosphere accelerated downward by a quasi‐static electric field. The region of the electric field, so called the auroral acceleration region, is typically located just above the ionosphere, at altitudes of a few thousand kilometers. However, recent studies have shown that it can be extended to altitudes higher than 30,000 km. The mechanism and impact of such a very‐high‐altitude acceleration region remain a mystery. The high‐angular resolution electron detector on board the Arase satellite successfully measured current and energy flows carried by the electron accelerated at the very‐high‐altitude acceleration region above the satellite altitude of 32,000 km. This acceleration at very‐high‐altitudes contributed significantly to the energy flow into the ionosphere. Based on the anisotropy of the accelerated electrons, the frequency of auroral kilometric radiation, and the presence of spiky electrostatic waves, we estimate that the very‐high‐altitude acceleration region was located more than 12,000 km above the satellite as a thin charge separation layer, apart from the acceleration region below the satellite. Our results suggest that localized electric fields at very high altitudes, which were not previously associated with the aurora, can energize auroral electrons and affect auroral visibility. Key Points: We comprehensively analyzed a very‐high‐altitude (>32,000 km) auroral acceleration eventNet precipitation of accelerated electrons significantly contributes to the field‐aligned current and energy flux into the ionosphereDouble layers in the magnetotail are possible candidates for very‐high‐altitude auroral accelerations [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the expression and activity of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) in patients with recurrent erythema multiforme (REM), a condition characterized by repeated outbreaks of erythema multiforme (EM). The study found that REM patients had increased expression of CD123, a marker for pDCs, in the epidermis and dermis. However, they also had reduced expression of Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), which suggests impaired activation of pDCs. The authors hypothesize that this impaired activation may contribute to the persistence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) and REM episodes. Further research on the role of reduced TLR9 expression in REM patients could lead to new targeted therapies. [Extracted from the article]

This study presents a five‐phase mesoscale modeling framework specifically developed to investigate crack propagation and mechanical properties of biochar–cement composites. The multi‐phase model includes porous biochar particles with precise geometric construction, sand aggregates, cement matrix, and interfacial transition zone adjunct to both the biochar particles and sand aggregates. The 3D porous biochar library was first proposed and established in this study, which could provide an external interface for describing different pore shapes, wall thicknesses, and pore areas. All the simulation results were experimentally validated using a digital image correlation. Through precise geometric modeling, the unique failure modes and timing of biochar particles within the mortar were identified. This is analogous to the "strong column–weak beam" concept, accounting for the enhanced ductility observed in the biochar–cement composites under compression test. This work can advance the geometric modeling of porous aggregates broadly and elucidate their mesoscopic failure mechanisms in cementitious materials, thus providing new insights for developing high‐ductility and lightweight cement composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: α1‐Antitrypsin deficiency is characterized by elevated elastase activity and excessive elastin degradation, which may impact cancer development and progression. We tested the hypothesis that individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency have increased susceptibility to cancer in the Danish population. Methods: In a nationwide nested study, we identified 2702 individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency and 26,750 control subjects without α1‐antitrypsin deficiency matched on age, sex, and municipality. We recorded admissions due to cancer as outcomes during a median follow‐up of 62 years. Results: Individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency versus control subjects had an increased hazard of skin cancer (2.18, 95%CI: 1.81–2.63), leukemia (1.76, 1.12–2.79), liver cancer (3.91, 2.23–6.85), and cancer overall (1.25, 1.13–1.38). Corresponding hazard ratios when the entire Danish population was used as control group were 3.02 (2.55–3.58), 1.83 (1.19–2.81), 4.46 (2.74–7.28), and 1.45 (1.31–1.59). When the analysis was stratified according to comorbidities, the hazard for skin cancer was higher in those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (3.59, 2.60–4.95) and skin disease (2.93, 2.19–3.92) but remained elevated in those without any of these diseases. Hazards for skin cancer in individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency were similar when stratified by liver cirrhosis and ischemic heart disease (ps for interaction: ≥0.76). Hazards for liver cancer in individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency versus control subjects were similar when stratified according to liver cirrhosis, COPD, skin disease, and ischemic heart disease (ps for interaction: ≥0.13). Conclusion: Individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency have increased risks of skin cancer, leukemia, and liver cancer in the Danish population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To demonstrate the feasibility of using a nonlinear gradient field for spatial encoding at the ultrasonic switching frequency of 20 kHz and present a framework to reconstruct data acquired in this way. Methods: Nonlinear encoding at 20 kHz was realized by using a single‐axis silent gradient insert for imaging in the periphery, that, is the nonlinear region, of the gradient field. The gradient insert induces a rapidly oscillating gradient field in the phase‐encode direction, which enables nonlinear encoding when combined with a Cartesian readout from the linear whole‐body gradients. Data from a 2D gradient echo sequence were reconstructed using a point spread function (PSF) framework. Accelerated scans were also simulated via retrospective undersampling (R = 1 to R = 8) to determine the effectiveness of the PSF‐framework for accelerated imaging. Results: Using a nonlinear gradient field switched at 20 kHz and the PSF‐framework resulted in images of comparable quality to images from conventional Cartesian linear encoding. At increased acceleration factors (R ≤ 8), the PSF‐framework outperformed linear SENSE reconstructions by improved controlling of aliasing artifacts. Conclusion: Using the PSF‐framework, images of comparable quality to conventional SENSE reconstructions are possible via combining traditional linear and ultrasonic oscillating nonlinear encoding fields. Using nonlinear gradient fields relaxes the demand for strictly linear gradient fields, enabling much higher slew rates with a reduced risk of peripheral nerve stimulation or cardiac stimulation, which could aid in extension to ultrasonic whole‐body MRI. The lack of aliasing artifacts also highlights the potential of accelerated imaging using the PSF‐framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: There is relatively scarce data regarding the association between primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and incident diabetes in large population‐based longitudinal studies. We aimed to evaluate the risk of incident diabetes in individuals with and without PHPT and investigate the association between serum calcium concentrations and the risk of incident diabetes in patients with PHPT. Methods: We included 2749 PHPT patients and 13,745 age, sex and index year matched non‐PHPT individuals during 2000–2019. We used Cox regression models to compare the risk of incident diabetes in individuals with and without PHPT, and the risk of incident diabetes in PHPT patients with serum calcium concentration above and below the median value. The association between serum calcium concentrations and the risk of incident diabetes was examined by restricted cubic spline analyses in patients with PHPT. Results: During a median follow‐up time of 5.17 years (IQR 2.17, 9.58), 433 patients (15.75%) with PHPT and 2110 individuals (15.35%) without PHPT developed diabetes, respectively. Patients with PHPT had a higher incidence rate of diabetes compared to non‐PHPT individuals (27.60 [95% CI 25.00, 30.30] vs. 23.90 [95% CI 22.80, 24.90] per 1000 person‐years, log‐rank test p =.007]. Crude Cox regression model showed PHPT was associated with a 15% higher risk of incident diabetes (HR 1.15, 95%CI 1.04, 1.28). In patients with PHPT, a 44% higher risk of incident diabetes was found in patients with serum calcium concentrations above the median value (2.63 mmol/L), compared to those below the median value (HR 1.44, 95%CI 1.08, 1.90). Restricted cubic spline analyses confirmed a positive linear association between serum calcium concentrations and the risk of incident diabetes in those with PHPT (p‐value for nonlinear =.751) Conclusions: Patients with PHPT had a higher risk of incident diabetes compared to non‐PHPT individuals. A positive linear association was found between serum calcium concentrations and the risk of incident diabetes in patients with PHPT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing a nanofluidic membrane with high selectivity and fast ion transport property is the key towards high‐performance osmotic energy conversion. However, most of reported membranes can produce power density less than commercial benchmark (5 W/m2), due to the imbalance between ion selectivity and permeability. Here, we report a novel nanoarchitectured design of a heterogeneous membrane with an ultrathin and dense zirconium‐based UiO‐66‐NH2 metal–organic framework (MOF) layer and a highly aligned and interconnected branched alumina nanochannel membrane. The design leads to a continuous trilayered pore structure of large geometry gradient in the sequence from angstrom‐scale to nano‐scale to sub‐microscale, which enables the enhanced directional ion transport, and the angstrom‐sized (~6.6–7 Å) UiO‐66‐NH2 windows render the membrane with high ion selectivity. Consequently, the novel heterogeneous membrane can achieve a high‐performance power of ~8 W/m2 by mixing synthetic seawater and river water. The power density can be largely upgraded to an ultrahigh ~17.1 W/m2 along with ~48.5 % conversion efficiency at a 50‐fold KCl gradient. This work not only presents a new membrane design approach but also showcases the great potential of employing the zirconium‐based MOF channels as ion‐channel‐mimetic membranes for highly efficient blue energy harvesting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal particle on a support material should be small and homogeneous in size, which is desirable when using it as a catalyst. In this study, we investigated to introduce Pd nanoparticles (NPs) with narrow size distribution into NH2‐MIL‐53, which was prepared by the reaction of aluminum(III) nitrate with 2‐aminoterephthalic acid. Only by immersing it in an aqueous PdCl2 solution, followed by the reduction with NaBH4, Pd NPs of about 2 nm with unform distribution were formed in NH2‐MIL‐53 up to 3.5 wt.% Pd loadings. Amino group on the linkers in NH2‐MIL‐53 played a critical role for the introduction of (PdCl3)− as a precursor for Pd NPs, while no Pd was introduced into MIL‐53 without amino group. The obtained catalysts (Pd@NH2‐MIL‐53) showed high catalytic performance for reduction of nitrite in water. The specific activity per Pd site exposed on the surface changed greatly depending on the Pd loadings despite the size of Pd NPs unchanged. Pd@NH2‐MIL‐53 with low Pd loadings showed higher specific activity (TOF=2.9×102 h−1), which might be due to the preferential exposure of Pd(111) facet on Pd NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many young adults report poor diet quality. However, research evaluating whether young adult males and females differ in diet quality is limited. Additionally, although diet quality has a known inverse association with body mass index (BMI), it is unclear whether this association is observed in young adults and whether it varies by gender. The present study aimed to evaluate gender differences in diet quality in young adults, as well as the associations between diet quality and BMI. Methods: Data collected via the Healthy Eating Quiz (HEQ) in respondents aged 18–35 years between July 2019 and December 2021 were analysed, including demographics, and diet quality calculated using the Australian Recommended Food Score (ARFS). Differences in characteristics were analysed using a two‐sample t‐test, chi‐squared and one‐way analysis of covariance. Linear regressions were performed to estimate associations between diet quality and BMI. An interaction term was included in the model to test differences between genders. Results: The respondents (n = 28,969) were predominantly female (70.8%) with a mean ± SD age of 25.9 ± 5.0 years and BMI of 24.6 ± 5.2 kg/m2. The mean ± SD ARFS was significantly different between females and males (33.1 ± 8.6 vs. 31.4 ± 9.3 points out of 70; p < 0.001). Diet quality had a small, significant inverse association with BMI in both genders. The interaction effect between diet quality score and gender in predicting BMI was significant (p < 0.001), suggesting the impact of diet quality on BMI varies by gender, with lower diet quality more strongly associated with higher BMI in females compared to males. Conclusion: Interventions that target young adults are needed to improve diet quality and its potential contribution to BMI status. As a result of the small observed effect sizes, caution should be applied in interpreting these findings. Key points: Young male and female adults (18–35 years) demonstrate significantly different diet quality, with females scoring higher.Diet quality and body mass index (BMI) were inversely associated in both males and females, but the impact of diet quality on BMI varies by gender.Dietary interventions in young adults are needed to improve diet quality and the contribution to BMI status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Therapeutic inertia, hypoglycaemia and poor treatment persistence can lead to glycaemic fluctuation and poor outcomes in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We compared glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) variability, insulin initiation, severe hypoglycaemia and clinical events in patients with T2D initiated dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP4is) at low versus high HbA1c thresholds. Methods: Using territory‐wide electronic medical records in Hong Kong, we curated a propensity score‐matched cohort of patients initiated DPP4i at HbA1c <7.5% versus ≥7.5% in 2007‐2019. We expressed the HbA1c variability score (HVS) as a proportion of HbA1c varied by ≥0.5% compared with preceding values. We used the Cox model to compare the risks of insulin initiation and clinical outcomes, adjusted for time‐varying variables between the two groups. Mediation analysis estimated the effects of HbA1c variability on outcomes. Results: Among 6874 insulin‐naïve patients who initiated DPP4i, 88.7% were treated with metformin and 79.6% with sulphonylureas at baseline (54.9% men; mean age 65.2 ± 11.4 years). After a median follow‐up of 4.6 years, compared with the high‐threshold plus high‐HVS group (≥50%), the low‐threshold plus low‐HVS (<50%) group had reduced hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) of insulin initiation (0.35, 0.31‐0.40), severe hypoglycaemia (0.38, 0.34‐0.44), major adverse cardiovascular endpoints (0.76, 0.66‐0.88), heart failure (0.42, 0.36‐0.49), end‐stage kidney disease (0.65, 0.36‐0.49) and mortality (0.45, 0.35‐0.57). Reduced HbA1c variability explained 31.1%‐81.2% of the effect size of DPP4i initiation at HbA1c <7.5% versus ≥7.5% on outcomes. Conclusions: In Chinese patients with T2D, avoiding therapeutic inertia with intensified glycaemic control at HbA1c <7.5% using drugs with low risk of hypoglycaemia and good tolerability, such as DPP4i, delayed insulin treatment, reduced HbA1c variability and improved clinical events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We introduce a novel analytical model of the growth of barchan dunes in terms of their two flanks, from which we derive expressions for the size‐dependence of the bilateral asymmetry of these bedforms in three cases where different mechanisms dominate the growth process. Analysis of the morphology of barchans on Mars and Earth suggest that there may exist two distinct attractor states for the asymmetry distribution. By comparing our analytical results with the observations, we show that the growth of barchan dunes appears to be dominated by processes, which are proportional to the basal area or volume of the bedforms, rather than being linear to their width as is typically assumed. We propose hypotheses explaining area‐dominated growth as a result of variable wind regimes and volume‐dominated growth from collisions. These predictions appear to be in line with the available data for the terrestrial swarms and barchan‐like submarine bedforms and offer the potential of predicting patterns in inaccessible wind regimes from data on the morphology of the dunes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is anticipated that by 2030, 20% of the world's population will live with obesity. Success in the management of obesity is predominately determined in terms of BMI or percentage weight loss, yet the limitations of these have been widely recognized. This study aimed to understand patient definitions of success in obesity treatment. Methods: A series of in‐depth focus groups, carried out with n = 30 adults living with obesity, offered a qualitative insight into patient definitions of success. Results: A thematic analysis of data yielded four thematic findings: Success as freedom from stigma, bias and the mental burden of obesity; success as being able to participate fully in the world; success as measured by NSVs [non‐scale victories]; and success is not a number on a scale. Conclusions: What this study highlights is (1) how current measures of success do not accurately encompass the priorities of people living with obesity, (2) the importance of addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of living with obesity in any definition of success , and (3) the importance of meaningful co‐creation of goals and indicators of success between clinician and patient for the effective management of the disease of obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly recommended for perioperative opioid‐sparing multimodal analgesic treatments. Concerns regarding the potential for serious adverse events (SAEs) associated with perioperative NSAID treatment are especially relevant following gastrointestinal surgery. We assessed the risks of SAEs with perioperative NSAID treatment in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of randomised clinical trials assessing the harmful effects of NSAIDs versus placebo, usual care or no intervention in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. The primary outcome was an incidence of SAEs. We systematically searched for eligible trials in five major databases up to January 2024. We performed risk of bias assessments to account for systematic errors, trial sequential analysis (TSA) to account for the risks of random errors, performed meta‐analyses using R and used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework to describe the certainty of evidence. Results: We included 22 trials enrolling 1622 patients for our primary analyses. Most trials were at high risk of bias. Meta‐analyses (risk ratio 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51–1.19; I2 = 4%; p =.24; very low certainty of evidence) and TSA indicated a lack of information on the effects of NSAIDs compared to placebo on the risks of SAEs. Post‐hoc beta‐binomial regression sensitivity analyses including trials with zero events showed a reduction in SAEs with NSAIDs versus placebo (odds ratio 0.73; CI 0.54–0.99; p =.042). Conclusion: In adult patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery, there was insufficient information to draw firm conclusions on the effects of NSAIDs on SAEs. The certainty of the evidence was very low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA mixture deconvolution in the forensic DNA community has been addressed in a variety of ways. "Front‐end" methods that separate the cellular components of mixtures can provide a significant benefit over computational methods as there is no need to rely on models with inherent uncertainty to generate conclusions. Historically, cell separation methods have been investigated but have been largely ineffective due to high cost, unreliability, and the lack of proper instrumentation. However, the last decade has given rise to more innovative technology that can target and recover cells more effectively. This study focuses on the development and optimization of a method to selectively label and recover male cells in a mixture of male and female epithelial cells using a Y‐chromosome labeling kit with DEPArray™ technology, whereby male cells are labeled and recovered into a single extraction‐ready tube. Labeling efficiency was tested using freshly collected and aged buccal swabs where 70%–75% and 38% of male cells were labeled, respectively, with less than 1% false positives. DEPArray™ detection was assessed using single buccal epithelial cells where approximately 80% of labeled cells were identified as male. Mixtures (1:1, 1:10, male to female) yielded profiles that were predominantly single source male or those in which the male component was more easily interpreted. The male‐specific labeling method was demonstrated to be both robust and reliable when used on freshly collected cells. While the DEPArray™ meditated detection and recovery had notable limitations, it still improved the interpretation of the male component in same‐cell mixtures in more recently collected samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a nanosecond laser was used to etch the surface of graphene nanoplatelets reinforced ZK60 (GNPs/ZK60) matrix composites, and the effects of different scanning speeds, pulse repetition frequency and laser power on the etched morphology of the machined surface were investigated. The experimental results show that the etched groove width and heat affected zone width of GNPs/ZK60 composites are significantly increased compared with ZK60 material due to the influence of graphene, and the growth rate of the difference in heat affected zone width between GNPs/ZK60 composites and ZK60 materials is most significantly affected by the pulse repetition frequency. In addition, the dross height increases with the increase of laser power, while the scaly dross structure becomes increasingly clear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Asians have a high prevalence of young‐onset diabetes, but the pattern of monogenic diabetes is unknown. We aimed to determine the prevalence of monogenic diabetes in Chinese patients with young‐onset diabetes and compare the clinical characteristics and outcome between patients with and without monogenic diabetes. Materials and Methods: We sequenced a targeted panel of 33 genes related to monogenic diabetes in 1021 Chinese patients with non‐type 1 diabetes diagnosed at age ≤40 years. Incident complications including cardiovascular disease (CVD), end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) and all‐cause death were captured since enrolment (1995–2012) until 2019. Results: In this cohort (mean ± SD age at diagnosis: 33.0 ± 6.0 years, median[IQR] diabetes duration 7.0[1.0–15.0] years at baseline, 44.9% men), 22(2.2%, 95% confidence interval[CI] 1.4%–3.2%) had monogenic diabetes. Pathogenic (P) or likely pathogenic (LP) variants were detected in GCK (n = 6), HNF1A (n = 9), HNF4A (n = 1), PLIN1 (n = 1) and PPARG (n = 2), together with copy number variations in HNF1B (n = 3). Over a median follow‐up of 17.1 years, 5(22.7%) patients with monogenic diabetes (incidence rate 12.3[95% CI 5.1–29.4] per 1000 person‐years) versus 254(25.4%) without monogenic diabetes (incidence rate 16.7[95% CI 14.8–18.9] per 1000 person‐years) developed the composite outcome of CVD, ESKD and/or death (p = 0.490). The multivariable Cox model did not show any difference in hazards for composite events between groups. Conclusions: In Chinese with young‐onset non‐type 1 diabetes, at least 2% of cases were contributed by monogenic diabetes, over 80% of which were accounted for by P/LP variants in common MODY genes. The incidence of diabetes complications was similar between patients with and without monogenic diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a molybdenum (Mo)‐doped cobalt (Co)‐heterostructure embedded on a phosphorous (P) and nitrogen (N) dual‐doped porous carbon which exhibits an intrinsic electronic transport channel of Co to Mo and P. The P,Mo,O−Co/PNC/NF (NF=Nickel foam) electrode offers 335 mV overpotential at 10 mA cm−2 in OER as compared with PMA‐ZIF67‐NC/NF and ZIF67‐NC/NF electrode with an overpotential of 357 and 373 mV respectively. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) of overall water splitting (OWS) supports that the current density gradually increased at a cell potential of 1.6 V with a maximum of 40 mA with a corresponding cell potential of 1.79 V at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations for water adsorption on optimized [111] surface of Co, CoMo, and CoMoP2 with adsorbed H2O and corresponding lattice determine the electron density difference of [111] surface with adsorbed H2O for Eads (eV) 4.23 corresponds to adsorption energy for CoMoP2. XANE‐EXAFS spectroscopy of P,Mo,O−Co/PNC at Co K edge and Mo K edge suggests the presence of higher valence of both Cox+ and Mox+ without metallic Co and Mo and Co−P and Mo−P bonds as major structural units due to phosphidation as determined by R‐space FT‐EXAFS spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface mechanical strengthening is an effective way to improve the fatigue performance, among which surface rolling has been vastly utilized for its significant enhancement in fatigue strength. However, traditional rolling process is only suitable for components with rotational symmetry, limiting its application. Herein, a newly developed technology named "spinning rolling (SR)" was developed to strengthen the surfaces of platy components. A common Al alloy, 7075, was selected for verifying the effect. It is found that compared with the most popular technology, shot peening (SP), SR can provide deeper and higher residual stress, lower surface roughness, and comparable hardening layer, and consequently, significantly higher fatigue lives. Accordingly, there is a transition in the fatigue crack source from point‐like to line‐like, confirming a strong crack propagation resistance along depth direction. This study indicates the advantages of the SR technology, providing a greater resistance against fatigue damage of platy components. Highlights: We developed a new surface strengthening technology—spinning rolling (SR), which has wider applicability and better fatigue life extension effect.The fatigue lives of 7075 aluminum alloy plates processed by SR are highly improved by even one order of magnitude at the same stress amplitude.There is a transition in the fatigue crack source from point‐like to line‐like, confirming a strong crack propagation resistance along depth direction due to SR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small topographic features below the resolution of existing orbital data sets may create "micro ultra‐cold traps" within the larger permanently shadowed regions that are present at the lunar poles. These ultra‐cold traps are protected from the major primary and secondary illumination sources, and thus would create surfaces that are much colder than lower‐resolution temperature maps would indicate. We examine this effect by creating a high resolution (1 m pix−1) terrain map based on upscaled data from the Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter. This map is illuminated by scattered sunlight and infrared emissions from sunlit terrain, which are then run through a thermal model to determine temperatures. We find that while most of the terrain experiences maximum temperatures around 50 K, there are a number of 1–30 m‐scale ultra‐cold traps with maximum temperatures as low as 20–30 K. By comparing our modeled ultra‐cold trapping area to volatile abundances measured by Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS), we reveal a diverse environment where the surficial abundances necessary to explain the LCROSS results are strongly dependent on precisely where the impact occurred. Plain Language Summary: Near the Moon's poles, there exist large regions of permanent shadow that are much colder than the surrounding terrain. Their consistently low temperatures allow molecules like water to accumulate within them, potentially creating deposits that play a key role in long‐term crewed exploration of the Moon. Within these permanently shadowed regions, there are likely smaller areas that are shielded from secondary illumination sources like scattered sunlight, making these areas even colder than the permanently shadowed terrain around them and allowing them to trap additional molecules like carbon dioxide, methane, and ammonia. We have modeled the temperatures of the lunar surface at the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) impact site at a resolution of 1 m px−1 to examine to what extent these small‐scale terrain features could explain the molecular abundances measured by LCROSS. By comparing our modeled temperatures to the LCROSS results, we find that the surface composition responsible for the LCROSS measurements depends on whether LCROSS impacted one or more of these small, extremely cold regions. Key Points: We model surface temperatures at the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) impact site at a resolution of 1 m px−1Small craters create ultra‐cold (<25 K) regions that enhance the surface's ability to cold‐trap non‐water volatilesComparisons with LCROSS volatile abundances reveal a diverse environment of potential surficial volatile compositions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The therapist‐facilitative interpersonal skills (FIS) has shown to predict therapy outcomes, demonstrating that high FIS therapists are more effective than low FIS therapists. There is a need for more insight into the variability in strengths and weaknesses in therapist skills. This study investigates whether a revised and extended FIS‐scoring leads to more differentiation in measuring therapists' interpersonal skills. Furthermore, we explorative examine whether subgroups of therapists can be distinguished in terms of differences in their interpersonal responses. Method: Using secondary data analysis, 93 therapists were exposed to seven FIS‐clips. Responses of therapists using the original and the extended FIS scoring were rated. Results: Three factors were found on the extended FIS scoring distinguishing supportive, expressive, and persuasive interpersonal responses of therapists. A latent profile analysis enlightened the presence of six subgroups of therapists. Conclusion: Using the revised and extended FIS‐scoring contributes to our understanding of the role of interpersonal skills in the therapeutic setting by unraveling the question what works for whom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the mechanical and morphological characteristics of poly(hydroxyalkanoate) (PHA)/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) blend matrix reinforced with spent coffee ground (SCG) were investigated across various weight ratios (100/0, 75/25, 50/50, 25/75, and 0/100) and SCG contents (10–40 wt%). SEM micrographs revealed a phase‐separated structure with cracks on the fracture surface, consistent with the lower flexural properties of biocomposites. The incorporation of SCG reduced mechanical properties, mainly due to its incompatibility with the PHA/PLA matrix. Biocomposites with high SCG content demonstrated lower energy absorption capabilities, likely due to SCG aggregates acting as stress concentrators and disrupting load‐transferring mechanisms. Moreover, increasing PHA content in the blends led to higher PLA crystallinity, as PHA acted as a nucleating agent for PLA. For biological treatment, biocomposites with PHA/PLA ratio (50/50) and SCG loading (20 wt%) were employed. The microscopic analysis highlighted well‐dispersed treated SCG within the matrix and improved interfacial contact. Biocomposites with treated SCG demonstrated remarkable enhancements of 52% and 113% in flexural strength and modulus, respectively. These findings proved the effectiveness of sustainable fungal treatment in enhancing interfacial adhesion and improving the mechanical performance of biocomposites. Highlights: Percentage of SCG in bioplastic blend as a significant effect on the flexural properties and impact strength.The ratio of the bioplastic blend has the strong influence on the flexural properties and impact properties.Biological treatment of SCG has improved the interfacial interaction between SCG and bioplastic blend.The treated SCG has rougher surface which facilitates the interfacial locking between bioplastic blend and treated SCG.The biological treatment of SCG has improved the mechanical properties of the composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine a risk scoring system for predicting advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACN) within subcentimetric polyps in a large Asian population. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in Hong Kong SAR, China involving participants who underwent colonoscopy between 2008 and 2015. A random sample of 20 072 subjects were included as the derivation cohort to assess ACN‐associated independent factors using logistic regression modeling. Another 8603 subjects formed a validation cohort. A risk scoring system was developed and its performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Results: The risk scores were assigned based on the following criteria: (a) patients who were admitted from inpatient colonoscopy (2.2) or not (1); (b) with three or more chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, heart disease, or cancer) (1.7) or not (1); (c) anemia (1.3) or without anemia (1); (d) receiving aspirin (0.5) or not (1); (e) receiving other nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (0.3) or not (1); (f) male (1.2) or female gender (1); (g) age <55 (1), 55–64 (1.4), 65–69 (2), 70 years or above (2.2). ACN was more common in those with scores of 2.192 or higher, and they were classified as high risk (HR). The prevalence of ACN in the validation cohort was 13.28% and 3.56% in the HR and low‐risk groups, respectively. In both the derivation and validation cohorts, AUROC of the risk‐scoring model was 0.7138. Conclusion: Physicians are recommended to utilize this validated score for risk‐stratification of patients having subcentimetric polyps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global climate models (GCMs) are unable to produce detailed runoff conditions at the basin scale. Assumptions are commonly made that dynamical downscaling can resolve this issue. However, given the large magnitude of the biases in downscaled GCMs, it is unclear whether such projections are credible. Here, we use an ensemble of dynamically downscaled GCMs to evaluate this question in the Sierra‐Cascade mountain range of the western US. Future projections across this region are characterized by earlier seasonal shifts in peak flow, but with substantial inter‐model uncertainty (−25 ± 34.75 days, 95% confidence interval (CI)). We apply the emergent constraint (EC) method for the first time to dynamically downscaled projections, leading to a 39% (−28.25 ± 20.75 days, 95% CI) uncertainty reduction in future peak flow timing. While the constrained results can differ from bias corrected projections, the EC is based on GCM biases in historical peak flow timing and has a strong physical underpinning. Plain Language Summary: Global climate models (GCMs) provide information on projected changes. However, their resolution is too coarse to assess future land surface changes at the regional scale. Dynamical downscaling resolves this issue, by refining the representation of hydroclimate conditions at a higher‐resolution. However, GCMs have unique historical biases that remain despite dynamical downscaling. Typically these GCM biases are ignored, resulting in assessments at the regional scale with large uncertainty. Here, we use an approach, called emergent constraint (EC), to reduce the uncertainty in projected changes in the timing of high flow conditions across the Sierra Nevada and Cascade region of the western United States. While this approach was introduced nearly two decades ago with coarse‐resolution GCM data, this is the first time the EC approach has been used at the regional scale with dynamical downscaling. From our analysis, we find high flow events are likely to occur earlier in the future for the Sierra‐Cascade region. This conclusion contains substantial uncertainty without the use of the EC approach. While this study focuses on the timing of high flows, it opens the door to a variety of follow‐on studies, seeking to produce more robust projections of hydroclimate change across the western US. Key Points: For the first time, an emergent constraint (EC) is used to reduce uncertainty in hydroclimate projections from a dynamically downscaled ensembleWe show that snowmelt‐driven basins in the western United States are very likely to experience earlier peak flows in the futureWith EC, uncertainty in future peak flow timing is reduced by roughly 39%; however, bias corrected results can differ [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We present a novel silent echo-planar spectroscopic imaging (EPSI) readout, which uses an ultrasonic gradient insert to accelerate MRSI while producing a high spectral bandwidth (20 kHz) and a low sound level. Methods: The ultrasonic gradient insert consisted of a single-axis (z-direction) plug-and-play gradient coil, powered by an audio amplifier, and produced 40mT/m at 20 kHz. The silent EPSI readout was implemented in a phase-encodedMRSI acquisition. Here, the additional spatial encoding provided by this silent EPSI readout was used to reduce the number of phase-encoding steps. Spectroscopic acquisitions using phase-encoded MRSI, a conventional EPSI-readout, and the silent EPSI readout were performed on a phantom containing metabolites with resonance frequencies in the ppm range of brain metabolites (0-4 ppm). These acquisitions were used to determine sound levels, showcase the high spectral bandwidth of the silent EPSI readout, and determine the SNR efficiency and the scan efficiency. Results: The silent EPSI readout featured a 19-dB lower sound level than a conventional EPSI readout while featuring a high spectral bandwidth of 20 kHz without spectral ghosting artifacts. Compared with phase-encoded MRSI, the silent EPSI readout provided a 4.5-fold reduction in scan time. In addition, the scan efficiency of the silent EPSI readout was higher (82.5% vs. 51.5%) than the conventional EPSI readout. Conclusions: We have for the first time demonstrated a silent spectroscopic imaging readout with a high spectral bandwidth and low sound level. This sound reduction provided by the silent readout is expected to have applications in sound-sensitive patient groups, whereas the high spectral bandwidth could benefit ultrahigh-field MR systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]