Potential Disruption Research Articles

Supramolecular Engineering of Vinylene-Linked Covalent Organic Framework - Ruthenium Oxide Hybrids for Highly Active Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis.

The controlled formation of a functional adlayer at the catalyst-water interface is a highly challenging yet potentially powerful strategy to accelerate proton transfer and deprotonation for ultimately improving the performance of proton-exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE). In this study, the synthesis of robust vinylene-linked covalent organic frameworks (COFs) possessing high proton conductivities is reported, which are subsequently hybridized with ruthenium dioxide yielding high-performance anodic catalysts for the acidic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In situ spectroscopic measurements corroborated by theoretical calculations reveal that the assembled hydrogen bonds formed between COFs and adsorbed oxo-intermediates effectively orient interfacial water molecules, stabilizing the transition states for intermediate formation of OER. This determines a decrease in the energy barriers of proton transfer and deprotonation, resulting in exceptional acidic OER performance. When integrated into a PEMWE device, the system achieves a record current density of 1.0 A cm-2 at only 1.54 V cell voltage, with a long-term stability exceeding 180 h at industrial-level 200 mA cm-2. The approach relying on the self-assembly of an oriented hydrogen-bonded adlayer highlights the disruptive potential of COFs with customizable structures and multifunctional sites for advancing PEMWE technologies.

Advancing medication compounding: Use of a pharmaceutical 3D printer to auto-fill minoxidil capsules for dispensing to patients in a community pharmacy.

Compounding medications in pharmacies is a common practice for patients with prescriptions that are not available commercially, but it is a laborious and error-prone task. The incorporation of emerging technologies to prepare personalised medication, such as 3D printing, has been delayed in smaller pharmacies due to concerns about potential workflow disruptions and learning curves associated with novel technologies. This study examines the use in a community pharmacy of a pharmaceutical 3D printer to auto-fill capsules and blisters using semisolid extrusion, incorporating an integrated quality control system. This retains the customisation and automation advantages of 3D printing, speeding up the manufacturing process while increasing familiarity for pharmacists. Minoxidil capsules (2.5 mg and 5mg doses) were prepared using a pharmaceutical 3D printer and dispensed to 9 patients in a community compounding pharmacy setting in Spain. This innovative production method was compared to the conventional manual capsule filling. All capsules met the European Pharmacopeia standards for mass uniformity, drug content and dissolution, and demonstrated stability at 25°C and 65% relative humidity for three months, matching the typical treatment duration. The 3D printer offers greater precision and efficiency and reduced operator involvement by more than half compared to manual capsule filling, making the process faster and more cost-effective. This study offers for the first time a clear roadmap for implementing a pharmaceutical 3D printer in a community pharmacy for automated compounding to prepare reliable and precise personalised medication for patients, marking a valuable step forward in precision medicine.

Cadmium-induced iron dysregulation contributes to functional impairment in brain endothelial cells via the ferroptosis pathway.

Cadmium (Cd2+) is a heavy metal that is a major hazardous environmental contaminant, ubiquitously present in the environment. Cd2+ exposure has been closely associated with an increased prevalence and severity of neurological and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a crucial role in protecting the brain from external environmental factors. Mitochondria play an important role in maintaining the barrier function of brain endothelial cells by regulating energy metabolism and redox homeostasis. In this study, we aimed to assess the cytotoxic effects of Cd2+ on the integrity and function of brain endothelial cells. After 24h of exposure, Cd2+ reduced cell survival, tight junction protein expression, and trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER) in bEnd.3 cells suggest a potential BBB integrity disruption by Cd2+ exposure. To clarify the underlying mechanism, we further investigated the role of mitochondria in iron overload-mediated cell death following Cd2+ exposure. Cd2+ induced a substantial reduction in mitochondrial basal respiration and ATP production in brain endothelial cells, suggesting mitochondrial dysfunction. In addition, Cd2+ exposure led to impaired autophagy, elevated iron levels, and increased lipid peroxidation, indicating the initiation of ferroptosis, a form of cell death triggered by iron. In summary, our research suggests that Cd2+ exposure can disrupt BBB function by causing mitochondrial dysfunction and disrupting iron homeostasis.

Repurposing COVID-19 Compounds (via MMV COVID Box): Almitrine and Bortezomib Induce Programmed Cell Death in Trypanosoma cruzi

Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, affects millions globally, with limited treatment options available. Current therapies, such as benznidazole and nifurtimox, present challenges, including their toxicity, side effects, and inefficacy in the chronic phase. This study explores the potential of drug repurposing as a strategy to identify new treatments for T. cruzi, focusing on compounds from the Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) COVID Box. An initial screening of 160 compounds identified eight with trypanocidal activity, with almitrine and bortezomib showing the highest efficacy. Both compounds demonstrated significant activity against the epimastigote and amastigote stages of the parasite and showed no cytotoxicity in murine macrophage cells. Key features of programmed cell death (PCD), such as chromatin condensation, mitochondrial membrane potential disruption, and reactive oxygen species accumulation, were observed in T. cruzi treated with these compounds. The potential to induce controlled cell death of these two compounds in T. cruzi suggests they are promising candidates for further research. This study reinforces drug repurposing as a viable approach to discovering novel treatments for neglected tropical diseases like Chagas disease.

Enhancing a low-cost, minimally invasive screening test for dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase mutations linked to 5-fluorouracil sensitivity by integrating computational mutation predictions.

226 Background: 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), a common chemotherapy for solid tumors, is metabolized primarily by dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), encoded by the DPYD gene. With > 200 known variants, individuals with nonfunctional DPYD alleles exhibit impaired 5-FU metabolism and are at risk of severe toxicity. Approximately 35% of the population has partial DPD deficiency, and 0.2% completely lack enzymatic activity. Despite this, DPYD genotyping is not standard practice. This study evaluates the use of non-invasive saliva samples for DPYD genotyping and combines AI-based molecular prediction modeling to search for novel variants within DPYD coding region. Saliva samples were collected from fifty-six healthy individuals and from gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients including a family cohort of nineteen individuals and three unrelated patients undergoing chemotherapy. Methods: gDNA was sequenced for nine DPYD variants reported to reduced or abrogate DPD activity: c.1905+1G > A, c.1679T > G, c.2846A > T, c.1129-5923C > G, c.1236G > A, c.299_302delTCAT, c.703C > T, c.2983G > T, and c.557A > G. cBioPortal was utilized to search the TCGA database for studies involving colon cancer patients with novel DPYD mutations exhibiting a total FIS score of at least 2 or identified through 3D modeling of DPD using PyMol based on their proximity to or the presence of polar contacts within the active site. Putative pathogenic mutations were analyzed using AlphaMissense and ChimeraX to assign a RSMD score, assessing their potential negative impact on DPD function. Results: Computational studies identified three mutations in DPYD from TCGA colon cancer patients with an unknown impact on DPD and a FIS greater than 4 (c.198G > C/T, c.2161G > A, c.2185G > A), suggesting potential disruption of its function. Four mutations (c.424T > G, c.427T > G, c.2460G > C, c.2909C > A) were identified through protein modeling using PyMol, but only two had a FIS greater than 2. Of these seven identified mutations, four (c.198G > C/T, c.2161G > A, c.2185G > A, c.2909C > A) also scored highly using AlphaMissense and ChimeraX. In silico prediction models from VarSome listed c.2185G > A as Pathogenic Moderate and c.2909C > A as Pathogenic Very Strong. Sequencing of saliva samples indicated mutations c.1129-5923C > G and c.1236G > A were present in four and three volunteers, respectively, and c.1905+1G > A in one case. Mutations identified in GI cancer patients were c.1129-5923C > G and c.1236G > A. Conclusions: By combining computational modeling with the analysis of naturally occurring mutations in colon cancer patients, we have successfully identified potentially pathogenic mutations in the DPYD gene. This information can enhance existing clinical diagnostic tests, providing a more comprehensive assessment of DPYD mutations, including novel variants.

Sustainable Seismic Practices in Offshore Exploration: A Conceptual Model for Minimizing Environmental Impact While Enhancing Resource Recovery

Offshore exploration for hydrocarbon resources often entails significant environmental challenges, including potential disruptions to marine ecosystems and water quality. This paper presents a conceptual model for sustainable seismic practices in offshore exploration, aiming to minimize environmental impact while enhancing resource recovery. The model integrates advanced seismic acquisition technologies with environmentally-conscious strategies, focusing on reducing operational risks, noise pollution, and seabed disturbances during data collection. Key components of the proposed model include the use of low-impact seismic sources, such as environmentally friendly air guns and vibroseis systems, designed to reduce underwater noise pollution and limit harm to marine life. Additionally, the model incorporates advanced real-time data processing techniques, which enable adaptive survey strategies that optimize data collection efficiency while minimizing the duration of operations in sensitive marine environments. The model emphasizes the importance of implementing noise mitigation technologies, including sound-absorbing materials and noise-canceling arrays, to reduce the adverse effects of seismic activities on marine fauna, particularly marine mammals and fish species. The conceptual framework also outlines the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to support seismic operations, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and further decreasing the carbon footprint of offshore exploration. Furthermore, the model advocates for a comprehensive environmental monitoring system, which uses satellite imagery and underwater sensors to assess the impact of seismic operations on surrounding ecosystems in real time. This enables timely interventions to prevent or mitigate potential damage to the marine environment. A case study illustrates the application of this model in a deepwater offshore basin, demonstrating the potential for sustainable seismic practices to balance resource recovery with environmental preservation. The model's implementation results in a 20% reduction in operational costs and a significant decrease in the environmental footprint, showcasing its effectiveness in achieving sustainable offshore exploration practices.

Comprehensive analysis of riverine flood impact on bridge and transportation network: Iowa case study

ABSTRACT Floods have a catastrophic impact on human life in terms of economic loss, infrastructure damage and loss of life. Understanding vulnerable transportation segments is critical to addressing potential disruptions that may be caused by a flood event. This study employs a systematic framework to analyze flood impacts by evaluating bridge inundation, waterway crossings and traffic disruptions across Iowa under 50-, 100- and 500-year flood scenarios. The southeast part of Iowa, which has been designated as a critical area because of the significant bridge inundation during these flood events, is given particular attention. Marion, a moderately populated county in the southeast of Des Moines, stands out as a critical region due to its significant bridge inventory inundation in 100- and 500-year flood cases. Our study also explores the conditions and construction years of bridges, their correlation with inundation risk and their impact on flood-related vulnerability. Additionally, we assess the effects of waterway bridge evaluations for different flood magnitudes on evacuation plans and analyze the vulnerability of the transportation network through the effects of closed bridges on traffic. These insights underscore the intricate interplay between floods and transportation, shedding light on bridge vulnerability, waterway evaluation and traffic disruption.

Hepatic lipidomics reveal shifts in glycerolipid, phospholipid, and sphingolipid composition associated with hepatic fat accumulation in central bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps).

To characterize changes in the hepatic lipid profile and metabolic pathways associated with increasing hepatic fat accumulation in bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps). Untargeted lipidomic analysis was conducted using LC-MS-MS on liver samples from bearded dragons with varying hepatic fat content. Hepatic fat percentage was calculated from digital image analysis of scanned histopathology slides. After data normalization, associations between lipids and hepatic fat percentages were assessed using serial linear models adjusted for false discovery rate, volcano plots, and principal component analysis. Changes in fatty acyl chains of triacylglycerols and phospholipids were characterized graphically using bubble plots. Enrichment and pathway analyses were also performed to examine potential disruptions in lipid metabolic pathways. 36 central bearded dragons were sampled, and 976 lipid molecules were identified and quantified. Triacylglycerols were the most abundant and exhibited significant increases in concentrations and changes in fatty acyl chain characteristics with higher hepatic fat content. Notably, ether-linked glycerolipids were significantly enriched with increasing fat content. Phospholipids, especially phosphatidylethanolamines and phosphatidylinositols, demonstrated a negative association with hepatic fat accumulation, but fatty acyl chains remained stable. Sphingomyelins were also decreased with increasing hepatic fat. This study shows some significant shifts in the hepatic lipidome of bearded dragons with increased hepatic fat, mainly involving glycerolipids, phospholipids, and sphingolipids. These findings reveal both shared and unique features when compared to mammalian and avian fatty liver disease and suggest species-specific lipid adaptive mechanisms.

Screening for Endocrine Bioactivity Potential of Tobacco Product Chemicals Including Flavor Chemicals.

Adolescence and pregnancy involve elevated levels of hormones (e.g., estrogen, androgen) during which exposure to endocrine disruptors could have long-term developmental and reproductive toxicity (DART) effects. Therefore, the use prevalence and abuse liability of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) among adolescents and youth, and during pregnancy, raises concerns about possible exposure to endocrine disruptors. In addition, endocrine disruptors have adverse effects on wildlife and environmental health. While many studies focus on carcinogenicity and mutagenicity of tobacco products, research efforts screening chemicals in tobacco products for endocrine disruption potential are few. In this study, we curated 5179 chemicals in tobacco and tobacco smoke, 2803 flavor chemicals, and 156 e-liquid chemicals from literature or openly available databases. We screened the chemicals for endocrine bioactivity using new approach methodologies (NAMs) developed through US Environmental Protection Agency's Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program. The specific NAMs, estrogenic and androgenic pathway models, identified 137 tobacco chemicals, 34 flavor chemicals, and three e-liquid chemicals (Veratraldehyde, (2E)-3-Phenylprop-2-enal, and 2'-Acetonaphthone) as "active," indicating potential endocrine bioactivity. Further, among the tobacco chemicals with endocrine bioactivity potential, 48 were environmentally persistent, 29 bioaccumulative, and 19 both persistent and bioaccumulative. Our findings document many chemicals in tobacco products with potential endocrine bioactivity, which raises concerns for both human and environmental health. These results also underscore the importance of DART potential of tobacco products and flavors. Overall, our study characterizes the endocrine bioactivity potential of tobacco and flavor chemicals and provides a list of chemicals to consider in future ecological and health risk assessments.

Supplier Selection Model Considering Sustainable and Resilience Aspects for Mining Industry

Supplier selection plays a pivotal role in the mining industry, forming a key component of the supply chain management. It has been established that the integration of sustainability and resilience into this process can significantly enhance the industry’s ability to withstand economic, environmental, and social shocks. Despite a large body of literature investigating supplier selection, there is a notable gap in research specifically addressing the incorporation of sustainability and resilience criteria in the mining industry. The objective of this research is to bridge this knowledge gap and contribute to the understanding of sustainable and resilient supplier selection in the mining industry. A constructive research approach was employed, identifying both practical and theoretical problems and proposing a construction—a mathematical model. This model was developed in collaboration with industry key actors, ensuring its practical applicability and validity. The main result of this research is an optimization mathematical programming model that allows practitioners to evaluate and select suppliers considering both sustainability and resilience criteria. The model facilitates a comprehensive assessment of suppliers, incorporating a wide range of factors beyond cost, including environmental impact, social responsibility, and the ability to maintain supply under various potential disruptions.

When not hearing becomes Unruly

This article delves into the dynamic of ‘Deafhood’, to examine its disruptive potential to challenge traditional norms and negotiating complex identities in political settings. Drawing from khanna’s (2016) understanding of Ambiguity and Gilroy’s (1993) conceptualisation of Authenticity, this theoretical analysis aims to explore the tense interplay between personal positionalities and formal collective politics within Deaf communities’ resistance movements. By building on these theoretical foundations, this article seeks to shed light on how ‘Deafhood’ challenge existing power structures and norms by prefiguring new ways of existing as a deaf person. Moreover, this exploration hopes to contribute to our understanding of the intricate dynamics that shape the identities and actions of d/Deaf individual within larger sociopolitical frameworks.

A physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model describing the kinetics of a commercial mixture α-, β-, and γ-hexabromocyclododecane exposure in mice.

Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) is a brominated flame retardant, that is added, but not chemically bonded, to consumer products. HBCD is sold as a commercial-grade HBCD mixture containing three major stereoisomers: alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ), with relative amounts of 12% for α-HBCD, 6% for β-HBCD, and 82% for γ-HBCD. HBCDs are widely measured in the environment and in biological matrices. The toxicological effects of its exposure in humans are not clearly understood. A recent reassessment pointed out potential thyroid disruption as a primary effect. This current work aims to update a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for γ-HBCD in C57BL/6 mice and incorporate equations and codes for α-HBCD and β-HBCD isomers and simulate them as a mixture. Physiological parameters were taken from the literature, calculated based on the log Kow or optimized with the dataset. The elimination of HBCDs in urine and feces was optimized to reflect the percent dose excreted, as published in the literature. Compared with data from the literature for α-HBCD, β-HBCD, and γ-HBCD in multiple tissues, the model simulations accurately described the pharmacokinetics of HBCDs in the mouse. The utility of the model was demonstrated by predicting blood concentrations from three studies in adult mice evaluating dopaminergic changes in the brain. Although this PBPK model for the mixture explicitly describes α-HBCD, β-HBCD, and γ-HBCD as individual exposures, but also as a mixture, more experimental data with commercial HBCD mixtures is still needed to improve the model.

P0324 Lower Bone Mineral Density and alterations in bone biomarkers DKK-1, Sclerostin, and Periostin in individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Abstract Background Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) affects the gastrointestinal tract but often presents with extraintestinal manifestations in many patients, including the decline in bone mass. The pathogenesis of IBD is primarily attributed to disturbances in immune responses within the gastrointestinal mucosa and potential disruptions in gut microbiomes. The inflammation of gastrointestinal tract triggers various systems, including the Wnt pathway, which is associated with bone loss. This study explores the alterations in Bone Mineral Density (BMD) and the levels of dickkopf-1(DKK-1), sclerostin (SOST), periostin (POSTN) and bone metabolism markers in IBD patients. Methods We evaluated a cohort of 89 individuals diagnosed with IBD (64% male, 65% with Crohn’s disease, and 35% with ulcerative colitis) with a median (interquartile range) age of 39(28, 54) years and 73 controls of 42(29, 54) years. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) was evaluated using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). We also measured DKK-1, SOST, POSTN, biochemical parameters and bone metabolism markers in the plasma and serum of participants. Results Femoral neck BMD Z-score was lower -0.7(-1.65, 0.2) vs -0.3(-1.1, 0.2) SD, p=0.04, while there was a trend for lower lumbar spine BMD Z-score in patients. Increased C-terminal telopeptides (CTX) 0.49(0.28, 0.68) vs 0.34(0.24, 0.47) pg/mL, p<0.001 and N-terminal telopeptides (NTX) levels 17(13, 23) vs 13.5(11, 18) nMBCE, p<0.001 were observed in patient group, while procollagen-1 N-propeptide and osteocalcin levels had comparable levels. Phosphorus and 25(OH)D levels were comparable between groups, while calcium levels were higher in patients 9.4(9, 9.7) vs 8.9(8.7, 9.2) mg/dl, p=0.02. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) 42(33, 54) vs 51(37, 63) pg/mL, p=0.009 as well as magnesium levels 2(1.8, 2.1) vs 2.1 (2, 2.2), p=0.02 were lower in the patient group. IBD patients exhibited elevated DKK1 levels 2359 (2104, 2583) vs 1580(1419, 1733) pg/mL, p<0.001 and reduced sclerostin 375(313, 501) vs 724(570, 899) pg/mL, p<0.001 and periostin levels 150(108, 204) vs 217(181, 312) ng/mL, p<0.001. DKK1 levels were positively correlated with CTX rho=0.27, p<0.001 and NTX rho=0.26, p<0.001 and negatively correlated with lumbar BMD Z-score rho=-0.21, p=0.02. Conclusion IBD patients were found with an osteopenic phenotype, which can be the consequence of bone loss due to osteoblast activation and increased bone resorption as indicated by increased CTX and NTX levels and osteoblast and osteocyte suppression as indicated by higher DKK-1 and lower periostin and sclerostin levels. The inflammation itself, malabsorption of nutrients, medications (e.g. corticosteroids), and low energy intake could contribute to those pathophysiological changes.

Interdependency classification: A framework for infrastructure resilience

Abstract Critical Infrastructure Systems (CISs) provide essential services for nation-wide security, economy, and social well-being, and these systems are becoming increasingly interdependent to maintain those services. Recent and diverse disturbances worldwide have highlighted that interdependencies within CISs may increase the potential for cascading failures, amplifying the impacts of both large and small-scale disturbances into events of catastrophic proportions. The methodology involved conducting a literature search through scholarly databases and using a snowball approach to identify 12 relevant papers on infrastructure interdependencies. Thematic analysis was then applied to classify 50 interdependencies, which were synthesized into a unified classification system mapped to a foundational framework. The direct citation network visualization tool, Kumu, illustrated citation patterns and guided the analysis. Identifying and classifying various interdependencies, understanding their relationships, and assessing their role in CISs are crucial steps to prevent, mitigate, or manage unfavorable consequences and enhance system resilience. In this article, we compiled and identified classifications of infrastructure interdependencies and described a unified classification. To support the resilience of CISs in periods of stability and instability, infrastructure managers not only need consistent terminology but a shared understanding of interdependencies to ensure said interdependencies within and across CISs are appropriately accounted for throughout the life cycle of infrastructure, from early planning stages to management – reactive or proactive – for disturbances. These are critical steps toward understanding how CISs operate in concert so infrastructure managers may sense and anticipate potential disruptions, manage the impacts and consequences, and adapt to changing future conditions.

Exploring the Anti-Adherence Potential of Skt35 to Combat Catheter-Associated Staphylococcus aureus Infections: Efficacy, Toxicity and Mechanism of Action.

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), often caused by biofilm-forming Staphylococcus aureus, present significant clinical challenges. Skt35, a dioxopiperidinamide derivative of cinnamic acid, was investigated for its potential antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against S. aureus biofilms. The antibacterial effect of Skt35 was assessed using the zone of inhibition and microdilution methods, revealing a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 250µM. Antibiofilm properties were confirmed through crystal violet assays, scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy, showing significant biofilm inhibition at the Sub-MIC. In an in vitro bladder model, Skt35-coated silicone catheter tubes exhibited significant antiadhesive effects. Zebrafish embryo tests indicated no toxicity at concentrations up to 125µM. Molecular docking and simulation analysis revealed strong binding affinities of Skt35 to Accessory Gene Regulator A (-7.9kcal/mol) and Lux Small protein (-4.96kcal/mol), suggesting potential disruption of quorum sensing and gene expression in S. aureus, making it a promising candidate for catheter coatings to prevent CAUTIs.

Do salient climatic risks affect shareholder voting?

Abstract Institutional investors affected by hurricanes subsequently support environmental proposals in non-affected firms even if they never voted for similar initiatives. Affected investors raise their holdings in firms where their pro-environment votes are consequential. The increased voting support after hurricanes has real effects as environmental proposals endorsed by more hurricane-afflicted investors are more likely to pass. Moreover, both market capitalization and analysts’ recommendations decline after firms pass environmental proposals. Our evidence suggests that natural disasters raise institutional investors’ concerns about the environment and about potential fund flow disruptions. These concerns, in turn, influence environmental activism, corporate policies, and firm performance.

Insights into the toxic impact of long-term exposure to diethyl phthalate on commercially important species Catla (Labeo catla)

BackgroundDiethyl phthalate (DEP), used as a plasticizer, is more prevalent in the aquatic environment due to its widespread usage in plastics, cosmetics, and numerous pharmaceutical industries. It is a potential endocrine disruptor, but the underlying mechanism in fish needs to be investigated. The present study evaluated the toxic impacts of DEP exposure for 30 days on commercially important fish Labeo catla (Catla). Alterations at multiple level endpoints of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis (HPG axis) were assessed. DEP-induced changes in oxidative stress, histopathological changes (liver, kidney and brain) and bioaccumulation in fish muscle were also evaluated.ResultsDEP exposure to 1/10th (1.62 mg/L) and 1/50th (0.32 mg/L) LC50 dose for 30 days to Catla revealed that it stimulated the expression of kisspeptin (Kiss 1 and Kiss 2) genes in the hypothalamus, leading to an increased GnRH concentration (36.75%) in the higher dose. The brain FSH levels increased by 11.24 and 55.42% times than control in both the doses. This led to an increase in circulating sex steroids E2 (41.62%) and 11 KT (24.59%) and eventually triggered hepatic Vtg production (23.90%) in a dose-dependent manner. DEP exposure lowered the concentration of antioxidants superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), the effect being more pronounced in the higher dose. The histopathological alterations, such as hepatocyte vacuolization, sinusoidal congestion, loss of brush border, degeneration of lumen, infiltration of eosinophilic cells in liver, kidney and brain, respectively, were noted.ConclusionsThis pioneering study could provide detailed insight into the endocrine disruptive potential of DEP in fish, as evidenced by its impact at multiple endpoints, even at low doses after 30 days of exposure. The output of this investigation thus emphasized the need for regular monitoring of DEP for ecological risk assessment.

Evolution characteristics and invulnerability simulation analysis of global zirconium ore trade network

The burgeoning demand for zirconium, driven by the rapid development of smart devices, low-carbon energy technologies, and other emerging industries, underscores the importance of understanding the dynamics of its global trade network. However, the evolutionary patterns of the international zircon ore trade network and its resilience to disruptions remain unclear. This study constructs the international zircon ore trade network from 2013 to 2022, analyzes its structural evolution at both the network and node levels, and evaluates its robustness in 2022 using five attack strategies: random node removal, random edge removal, edge degradation, targeted removal based on node degree, and targeted removal based on node betweenness centrality. Our findings reveal that: (1) the international zircon ore trade network exhibits a shift in the import market towards Asia, with the export market dominated by Spain, the United States, and Brazil. China plays a crucial role as a bridge connecting various countries, while Japan exerts significant influence within the network; (2) the network is particularly vulnerable to targeted attacks based on node degree and betweenness centrality, highlighting the potential for significant disruption following the removal of key nodes. This study provides valuable insights for ensuring the stable and sustainable supply and consumption of zirconium resources, informing the development of targeted policies for countries and relevant industries.

Virtual primary care for people living with dementia in Canada: cross-sectional surveys of patients, care partners, and family physicians

BackgroundVirtual care (VC) for dementia in primary care settings is an important aspect of healthcare delivery in Canada. However, the evidence informing optimal and sustainable provision of VC for persons living with dementia (PLWD) and their care partners is scarce. The objectives of this study were to (1) describe the frequency of VC use, (2) identify characteristics of PLWD, care partners, and family physicians (FPs) that are associated with the use of VC, and (3) explore FPs’ perceptions of barriers and facilitators to provide VC for PLWD and their care partners.MethodsThe Alzheimer Society of Canada and College of Family Physicians of Canada conducted three nationwide cross-sectional surveys between October 2020 and April 2021: (1) One with PLWD, (2) one with care partners of PLWD, and (3) one with FPs. Virtual care was defined as two-way synchronous communication by telephone and/or a web camera. The prevalence of VC use among FPs, PLWD, and care partners was described. Logistic regression models were used to determine characteristics of participants (sociodemographic, urbanicity, frequency and availability of support for connecting with FPs, and FPs’ practice characteristics) associated with any VC use (phone and/or video). Inductive thematic analysis of open-ended questions explored FPs’ perceptions.Results131 PLWD, 341 care partners, and 125 FPs participated. 61.2% of PLWD, 59.5% of care partners, and 77.4% of FPs reported using VC. The models for PLWD (included age and ethnicity) and care partners (included gender/sex, urbanicity, and receiving support from a family member/friend to connect with FP) were inconclusive. FPs with > 20 years in practice were less likely to provide VC (OR = 0.23, 95%CI: 0.08–0.62, p < 0.01). FPs perceived that preferences regarding virtual vs. in-person care, office/family support, technology and family presence, and remuneration for FPs influenced VC use.ConclusionsVirtual primary dementia care uptake in Canada is substantial and mainly performed via telephone. According to FPs, physician-patient-caregiver partnerships and infrastructure for VC play key roles in using VC. Virtual care could facilitate access to primary care and minimize potential disruptions to in-person care for PLWD. Outcomes of virtual primary care for dementia need further investigation.

Child fostering and maternal migration in sub-Saharan Africa

Rising feminization of migration has resulted in substantial flows of women migrating in Africa, increasing the importance of migration in women’s lives. Although child fostering is an enduring feature of family life throughout Africa, few studies have examined the role that maternal migration may play in these arrangements. I use Demographic and Health Survey data from 24 African countries to explore associations between maternal migration experience and fostering out of children aged 0–17, focusing on maternal migrant status, migrant stream, motivation, and timing of migration relative to births of children, to explore potential disruption introduced by migration. Results suggest that maternal migration disrupts mother–child co-residence, with greater fostering among children of migrant mothers, particularly rural–urban migrants. Children born before migration display the highest probability of fostering, consistently across migrant streams. These results suggest a need for greater attention to the impacts of maternal migration for children’s living arrangements, particularly as migration flows become increasingly feminized.