bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesized partially unzipped carbon nanotubes and potential DNA/CNTs interactions
Authors: Fouda A N , Almaqwashi Ali A
Published: May 2023

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are structurally considered to be graphene nano-ribbons (GNRs) that rolled up into seamless tubes. While CNTs nanotechnology is advancing, synthesis of GNRs from CNTs is sought after for precise and integrative graphene applications. Acid treatment of CNTs can generate longitudinal unzipping in an effective, large scale and economic approach. However, further understanding of CNTs-to-GNRs degradation, which mimics biodegradation molecular processes by oxidants, can also aid to assess toxicological impact of biodegraded CNTs. In this study, unzipping of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was established using a strong oxidizing agent. The influence of oxidation on the morphological, crystalline quality and dielectric properties was investigated. In particular, partial unzipping of CNTs was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Broad band dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) was utilized to depict the influence of the applied frequency on the dielectric properties. GNRs exhibited a lag in the drop of capacitance and impedance to higher values of frequency with respect to the starting MWCNTs. Furthermore, DNA interactions with partially unzipped carbon nanotubes, were computationally assessed by employing molecular docking. The obtained potential DNA-CNT molecular conformations were illustrated and their biomolecular implications were discussed.
Topological effects on generalized Duffin-Kemmer-Petiau oscillator under Aharonov–Bohm flux field and Coulomb potential
Authors: Candemir Nuray , Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study the relativistic quantum motions of the oscillator field of the wave equation under the influence of the Aharonov–Bohm (AB) flux field with a Coulomb vector potential in the background of the topological defects produced by a cosmic string and global monopole space-time. We derive the radial equation of the generalized Duffin-Kemmer-Petiau (DKP) oscillator in a static cosmic string space-time and solve it through the Heun function equation. Afterwards, we derive the radial equation of the same generalized DKP oscillator in a point-like global monopole background and obtain the eigenvalue solutions using the same procedure. The generalized oscillator field is studied by substituting the radial momentum operator ∂
r
→ (∂
r
+ i
M
ω
η
0
f(r)), where f(r) is an arbitrary function other than linear and introduces a vector potential of Coulomb-types through a minimal substitution via ∂
μ
→ (∂
μ
− i
q
A

μ
) in the relativistic wave equation. It is shown that the eigenvalue solutions of the oscillator field are influenced by the topological defects of the cosmic string and point-like global monopole space-times and get them modified. Furthermore, we see that the eigenvalue solutions depend on the geometric quantum phase, and hence, shifted them more in addition to the topological defects that show the gravitational analogue to the Aharonov–Bohm effect for the bound-states.
Generation and characteristics of an anomalous Airy vortex beam from a Lommel vortex beam
Authors: Qiu Yuanhuang , Liu Zhirong
Published: May 2023

A practical method for generating an anomalous Airy vortex beam is proposed, and characteristics of this novel kind beam are investigated. Results show that orbital angular momentum (OAM) quantum number n could be used to modulate the profiles of vortex rings, asymmetric parameter c would cause the beam rotation and phase distortion, and when increase control parameters α and β, more energy would concentrate on the side lobes, and the side lobes in the x-direction and y-direction separately would expand laterally and longitudinally, respectively. Particularly, the position and moving direction of the light spot could be controlled precisely according to the actual needs by altering the phase shift proportional coefficients p and q. Our work would extend potential applications of the mixed vortex beams in optical micro-manipulation and optical trapping.
Unusual magnetic relaxation in a single-molecule magnet with toroidal magnetic moments
Authors: Su Dan , Zhang Yi-Quan , Liu En-Ke , Sun Yang
Published: May 2023

We report the synthesis and characterization of a single-molecule magnet composed of triangular clusters of dysprosium ions. The structural study shows that the symmetry changes from one polar point group (mm2) at room temperature to another polar point group (m) at low temperature. Magnetic studies and theory calculations illustrate that the vortex distribution of magnetic dipoles in the triangular dysprosium clusters forms a toroidal magnetic moment. Interestingly, the analysis of AC magnetic susceptibility reveals the coexistence of three distinct magnetic relaxation processes, corresponding to the Raman, Orbach, and QTM relaxation pathways, respectively. The sum of three modified Debye functions is successfully used to describe the multiple relaxation behavior.
Ultra faint edge on galaxies: standard and alternative gravity explorations
Authors: O’Brien James G. , Kerin William M. , Chiarelli Thomas L.
Published: May 2023

Recently, Bizyaev et. al. (2021) conducted the first modeling of rotation curves for 153 ultra-faint, edge-on galaxies using the 3.5 m telescope at the Apache Point Observatory. These models derived high resolution rotation curves for 20 galaxies of various sizes and spiral morphologies, making new estimates of the optical scale lengths. Using the derived models, in this work we make the first fits to the rotation curves using alternative gravity, namely conformal gravity, Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) and more. A robust analysis is shown including the derived rotation curve fits to the alternative gravity models, along with how the models account for empirical phenomena such as the Baryonic Tully Fisher relation and the Radial Acceleration Rule. This data is not only modern, but unique in that certain galaxies are shown to be able to be fit by standard gravity alone without dark matter.
Applying Retardation Theory to Galaxies
Authors: Wagman Michal , Horwitz Lawrence P. , Yahalom Asher
Published: May 2023

The missing mass problem has been with us since the 1970s, as Newtonian gravity using baryonic mass cannot account for various observations. We investigate the viability of retardation theory, an alternative to the Dark Matter paradigm (DM) which does not seek to modify the General Principal of Relativity but to improve solutions within it by exploring its weak field approximation to solve the said problem in a galactic context. This work presents eleven rotation curves calculated using Retardation Theory. The calculated rotation curves are compared with observed rotation curves and with those calculated using MOND. Values for the change in mass flux to mass ratio are extracted from the fitting process as a free fitting parameter. Those quantities are interpreted here and in previous works using given galactic processes. Retardation Theory was able to successfully reproduce rotation curves and a preliminary correlation with star birthrate index is seen, suggesting a possible link between galactic winds and observed rotation curves. Retardation Theory shows promising results within current observations. More research is needed to elucidate the suggested mechanism and the processes which contribute to it. Galactic mass outflows carried by galactic winds may affect rotation curves.
Entanglement, Microcausality and Gödel’s Theorem
Authors: O’Hara Paul
Published: May 2023

One of the key points of Pauli’s proof of the spin-statistics theorem is the principle of microcausality, which essentially states “that all physical quantities at finite distance exterior to the light cone (for

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″

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−
x
″

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) are commutable”. Indeed, Pauli was aware that if it were not valid then neither was his version of the spin-statistics theorem. In this presentation, we explore the relationship between entanglement and microcausality and point out that in the case of spin-singlet states, microcausality does not apply. Consequenly, we revise the spin statistics theorem to incorporate entanglement and to suggest some refinements to the axiomatic structure of quantum mechanics. Ironically, singlet states are SL(2,C) invariant as is the Minkowski metric of special relativity, although the singlet state is often used to convey “spooky action at a distance” as if it were in violation of special relativity, which it is not. We also pose the question whether the paradoxes associated with “entanglement” can be understood as a special case of Gödel’s theorem.
Extension of the Goldstone and the Englert-Brout-Higgs mechanisms to non-Hermitian theories
Authors: Mannheim Philip D.
Published: May 2023

We discuss the extension of the Goldstone and Englert-Brout-Higgs mechanisms to non-Hermitian Hamiltonians that possess an antilinear PT symmetry. We study a model due to Alexandre, Ellis, Millington and Seynaeve and show that for the spontaneous breakdown of a continuous global symmetry we obtain a massless Goldstone boson in all three of the antilinear symmetry realizations: eigenvalues real, eigenvalues in complex conjugate pairs, and eigenvalues real but eigenvectors incomplete. In this last case we show that it is possible for the Goldstone boson mode to be a zero-norm state. For the breakdown of a continuous local symmetry the gauge boson acquires a non-zero mass by the Englert-Brout-Higgs mechanism in all realizations of the antilinear symmetry, except the one where the Goldstone boson itself has zero norm, in which case, and despite the fact that the continuous local symmetry has been spontaneously broken, the gauge boson remains massless.
High accuracy synchrotron radiation interferometry with relativistic electrons
Authors: Klag P , Achenbach P , Akiyama T , Böhm R , Distler M O , Doria L , Eckert P , Esser A , Geratz J , Gogami T , Helmel C , Herrmann P , Hoek M , Kaneta M , Konishi Y , Kino R , Lauth W , Merkel H , Mizuno M , Müller U , Nagao S , Nakamura S N , Okuyama K , Pochodzalla J , Schlimme B S , Sfienti C , Shao T , Steinen M , Stengel S , Thiel M , Toyama Y
Published: May 2023

A high-precision hypernuclear experiment has been performed at the Mainz Microtron (MAMI) to determine the hypertriton Λ binding energy via decay-pion spectroscopy. A key element of this measurement is an accurate calibration of the magnetic spectrometers with the MAMI beam. For such an absolute calibration with small statistical and systematic uncertainties the undulator light interference method will be applied. In this contribution the basic principle of this method is discussed and the analysis status of the measured synchrotron radiation spectra is presented.
Time dispersion in quantum electrodynamics
Authors: Ashmead John
Published: May 2023

If we use the path integral approach, we can write quantum electrodynamics (QED) in a way that is manifestly relativistic. However the path integrals are confined to paths that are on mass-shell. What happens if we extend QED by computing the path integrals over all paths in energy momentum space, not only those on mass-shell? We use the requirement of covariance to do this in an unambiguous way. This gives a QED where the time/energy components appear in a way that is manifestly parallel to the space/momentum components: we have dispersion in time, entanglement in time, full equivalence of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle (HUP) in time to the HUP in space, and so on. Entanglement in time has the welcome side effect of eliminating the ultraviolet divergences. We recover standard QED in the long time limit. We predict effects at scales of attoseconds. With recent developments in attosecond physics and in quantum computing, these effects should be detectable. Since the predictions are unambiguous and testable the approach is falsifiable. Falsification would sharpen our understanding of the role of time in QED. Confirmation would have significant implications for attosecond physics, quantum computing and communications, and quantum gravity.
Integrated management strategies adopted for suppressing invasive rugose spiraling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin in Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Chalapathi Rao N B V , Neeraja B , Bhagavan B V K , Reddy R V S K
Published: May 2023

Andhra Pradesh is one of the important coconut-growing states in India with an area of 0.115 million hectares producing 1,567.60 million nuts annually. The exotic pest rugose spiraling whitefly (RSW), Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) has entered India in 2016 with first reports from Kerala and Tamil Nadu states and from Andhra Pradesh in 2017. The IPM strategies which included the installation of yellow sticky traps @12/acre, re-distribution of parasitoid Encarsia guadeloupae, foliar application of entomopathogenic fungi Isaria fumosorosea NBAIR pfu 5 (5 g/litre @1x108 spores/ml) along with the release of neuropteran predator Apertochrysa astur @600 eggs per palm resulted in successful containment of RSW in experimental plantations. An effective extension network promoting IPM strategies for RSW management resulted in a decrease in incidence and intensity from 50 to 75 percent in four major coconut-growing villages in two districts in the year 2020-21 as compared to 2019-20. However, continuous monitoring for invasive whiteflies should be done rigorously as another neotropical invasive, Bondar’s Nesting Whitefly (BNW), Paraleyrodes bondari Peracchi (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) was observed along with RSW in coconut plantations during surveys necessitating development of an integrated approach for all invasive whiteflies.
Early detection and integrated disease management against coconut basal stem rot disease
Authors: Neeraja B , Snehalaltha Rani A , Chalapathi Rao N B V , Bhagavan B V K
Published: May 2023

Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is a multipurpose palm known as kalpavriksha due to its extensive use of all plant parts. Basal stem rot disease, caused by Ganoderma lucidum/Ganoderma aplanatum in coconut, may affect this palm. Under pot culture studies, Redgram (Cajanus cajan) and Bengal gram (Cicer arietinum) were identified as indicator plants for early detection of basal stem rot (Ganoderma wilt) disease in coconut. Furthermore, in 2014, the dosage, frequency, and method of application of effective biocontrol agents, Trichoderma reesei, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and neem cake (5 kg/palm/year), were standardised and compared to root feeding of Hexaconazole @3ml/100ml of water/palm/quarter and micronutrient application @1kg/palm/year at Patha gannavaram village of east godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Soil application of a talc-based formulation containing 125 g of Trichoderma reesei and 125 g of Pseudomonas fluorescens + 5 kg of Neem cake/palm/year was found to be successful in lowering the disease index from 28.44 to 4.23 under field conditions over three years from 2014 to 2017.
Distribution and Identification of Invasive Whiteflies on Coconut Palms in Eastern India and Its Natural Enemies: A Biosecurity Perspective
Authors: Sankarganesh E , Roy Kusal , Ali Md. Nasim
Published: May 2023

Regular movements of planting materials between countries pave the way for the entry of exotic pests. Despite rigorous quarantine regulations, various insect pests have hitherto entered India and raised biosecurity concerns. The occurrence of rugose spiraling whitefly,Aleurodicus rugioperculatusMartin and bondar’s nesting whitefly,Paraleyrodes bondariPeracchi on coconut crop has drawn the attention of the scientific and farming community due to their unique damaging behavior and rapid progression. Understanding their invasion, a study was undertaken to explore their incidence pattern in West Bengal (India). The survey revealed the occurrence of these species in different regions and habitats. The species was confirmed by standard morphological characters and molecular techniques by amplifying the cytochrome oxidase gene (COI) of mDNA. The representative sequence ofA. rugioperculatusandP. bondarihas been deposited to the NCBI with accession numbers OP024192 and OP024193, respectively. At present, two species co-exist on coconut leaflets with a rare exception of Gause’s principle. The incidence and severity of these pests were found greater on coconut palms. The damage inflicted by siphoning of plant sap byA. rugioperculatuswas more severe thanP. bondari. A shift in the weather pattern and continuous dry spells favor their proliferation and spread. The extensive field survey identified potential natural enemies of these whiteflies in the Eastern region of the country. Coconut plays a significant role in the agrarian economy and this comprehensive work would be much useful as a diagnostic guide for farmers, researchers, extension workers and organizations.
Study on the heat transfer with regard to an off-grid vending machine having a low impact on the environment
Authors: Calotă Răzvan , Girip Alina , Ilie Anica , Glavă Grigoraș , Savaniu Mihai
Published: May 2023

Following the current trend of energy economy, the article’s team designed a vending machine made of sandwich panels, in order to minimize the heat transfer from the environment to the chilled volume. The heat inputs calculation was based on the data provided in the sandwich panels’ technical sheets. In this paper, the real performance in operation was monitored, resulting in a deviation between 2.27 and 5.37% of the theoretical values for the global heat transfer coefficient. Furthermore, the TEWI coefficient (Total Equivalent Warming Impact) was evaluated to highlight the energy efficiency of the equipment, operating with refrigerant R290. Thereby, the authors emphasize the importance of the transition to natural refrigerants.
Experimental evaluation of the variation of human breathing flow parameters for multiple test subjects
Authors: Georgescu Matei-Razvan , Nastase Ilinca
Published: May 2023

The present study addresses the variability of human breathing parameters as extrapolated from a set of experimental measurements of CO2 generation rates from 13 test subjects. Interior air quality studies frequently deal with the exposure of occupants to different environmental pollutants. While experimental measurements are sufficient to quantify the pollutant concentration in the occupant’s vicinity, the actual intake of pollutant is more difficult to assess. Experimental means of evaluating occupant pollutant intake involve breathing thermal manikins situated in areas of interest. The manikins breathe following a breathing function based either on previous experimental measurements or reference values indicated in the literature. However, the breathing parameters of each person vary significantly according to physiological factors. For this reason, using average values, although necessary, may frequently be misleading when establishing room ventilation flow rates for improving air quality. The aim of the current paper is to provide a quantitative assessment of the potential deviation of individual breathing parameters from an average result. The results are used to formulate recommendations for future studies aimed at determining the necessary ventilation rates for occupant protection against a given pollutant.
Comparative study regarding retrofitting with a low GWP refrigerant in an ice rink with energy recovery implementation
Authors: Girip Alina , Ilie Anica , Calotă Răzvan
Published: May 2023

The authors make a comparative study between an existing R407C indirect refrigeration system which serves an ice rink refrigeration plant with a modern R744 indirect refrigeration system incorporating heat recovery, by using “Pack Calculation Pro” software. The proposed solution involves no alterations in the water-ethylene glycol circuit that ensures the rink’s cooling load. By considering the need for retrofitting to comply with current legislation, the study aims to identify the best solution in terms of environmental impact and the CO2-equivalent release into the atmosphere. The recovered energy can be further used for space heating, ventilation, and domestic hot water preparation. This study is targeted on an existing ice rink placed in Iasi, Romania, and the analysis demonstrates that the implementation of this solution reduces the environmental impact of CO2-equivalent reduction, and the global COP (Coefficient of Performance) value increases.
Analysis of the factorial and consequential variables in the energy efficiency study of a heat pump unit with a radiant evaporator
Authors: Trayanov Traicho , Ivanov Martin , Terziev Angel
Published: May 2023

The presented study deals with univariate and multivariate analysis of the dependencies between the factor and consequent variables in the study of the efficiency of a heat pump unit with a radiant evaporator. The strength and direction of the connections between these variables is studied and discussed. The values of the correlation and determination coefficients were determined and the equations of the models describing them were derived. The presented analysis is considered as a valuable tool for the heating, ventilating and air conditioning design process in the building sector.
Corporate board attributes and environmental accounting disclosure of oil and gas firms in Nigeria
Authors: Bala Hussaini , Shaheen Riffat , Khatoon Ghousia , Belgacem Samira Ben , Yusuf Ja’afar , Shafiu Raziqa Muhammad
Published: May 2023

There is growing concern for corporate entities to disclose information in respect of their environmental practices as an addition to conventional economic reporting. This study explores the influence of corporate board physiognomies on environmental accounting disclosures (CEADs). The study examines the data of 13 oil and gas companies for the period of 2014 to 2020. Pool regression was used to analyse the data. The key findings of this research show that the EAD Among Nigeria’s publicly traded oil and gas firms is substantially influenced by the board financial expertise, audit committee (AC) independence and AC financial expertise. This supports the stakeholder’s theory which suggests that the board of directors as environmental representatives, protect the shareholders’ objective since more EADs will increase their reputation, appeal prospective investors and customers. While the EAD of these enterprises was unaffected by by-the--the-board independence. The study exposed the need for the regulatory agency to come up with empowering laws that can ensure that listed Nigerian oil and gas companies cuddle CEAD regardless of their size and profitability. Finally, the Global Environmental Disclosure Index (GEI) should be recognised as the most palatable benchmark for evaluating environmental accounting in Nigeria.
Existence and stability of bifurcating solution of a chemotaxis model
Authors: Chen Mengxin , Srivastava Hari
Published: May 2023

This paper focuses on a chemotaxis model with no-flux boundary conditions. We first discuss the stability of the unique positive equilibrium by treating the chemotaxis coefficient

ξ
\xi

as the Hopf bifurcation and the steady state bifurcation parameter. Hereafter, we perform the existence and stability of the bifurcating solution, which bifurcated from the steady state bifurcation, by using the Crandall-Rabinowitz local bifurcation theory. It is noticed that few existing literatures give a discriminant to determine the stability of the bifurcating solution for the chemotaxis models. To this end, we will fill this gap, and an explicit formula will be presented. This technique can also be applied in other ecological models with chemotaxis.
TransMHCII: a novel MHC-II binding prediction model built using a protein language model and an image classifier
Authors: Yu Xin , Negron Christopher , Huang Lili , Veldman Geertruida
Published: May 2023

The emergence of deep learning models such as AlphaFold2 has revolutionized the structure prediction of proteins. Nevertheless, much remains unexplored, especially on how we utilize structure models to predict biological properties. Herein, we present a method using features extracted from protein language models (PLMs) to predict the major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) binding affinity of peptides. Specifically, we evaluated a novel transfer learning approach where the backbone of our model was interchanged with architectures designed for image classification tasks. Features extracted from several PLMs (ESM1b, ProtXLNet or ProtT5-XL-UniRef) were passed into image models (EfficientNet v2b0, EfficientNet v2m or ViT-16). The optimal pairing of the PLM and image classifier resulted in the final model TransMHCII, outperforming NetMHCIIpan 3.2 and NetMHCIIpan 4.0-BA on the receiver operating characteristic area under the curve, balanced accuracy and Jaccard scores. The architecture innovation may facilitate the development of other deep learning models for biological problems.
International health initiative: Development and pilot testing of a molecular diagnostics training program in Romania
Authors: Fukuto Hana S , Nelepcu Iulian I , Necula Steliana , Galli Nora E , Viboud Gloria I
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The implementation of nucleic acid testing in laboratory medicine has revolutionized clinical diagnosis. Unfortunately, incorporation of these technologies in less developed countries remains a challenge. Despite Romania’s recent economic growth, the country is in dire need of medical and laboratory staff trained in modern technologies. The aim of the study was to develop a curriculum that could easily be delivered to laboratory professionals in Romania and to pilot test the effectiveness of the training in increasing their understanding of molecular tests.

Methods

The program was developed in accordance with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) quality training standards. It was offered to 50 laboratory professionals and consisted of online, asynchronous lectures and optional synchronous review sessions. Training effectiveness was evaluated using CDC guidelines based on pre- and postassessment questions answered anonymously.

Results

Forty-two people participated in the program, and 32 (81%) completed the training successfully. Based on 16 participants’ self-assessment, the course was successful in improving learners’ overall knowledge of molecular diagnostics—specifically, their understanding of molecular techniques and how to interpret results. Those participants were highly satisfied with the overall training.

Conclusions

The piloted platform presented here is promising and can be a foundation for future larger-scale studies in countries with developing health systems.
High-Salt Diet Aggravates Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Glomerular Fibrosis in Dahl Salt-Sensitive Rats
Authors: Chen Hui-Lin , Peng Kuang , Zeng Dian-Mei , Yan Jun , Huang Ya-Qi , Jiang Pei-Yong , Du Ya-Fang , Ling Xiang , Wu Jie
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Both diabetic and hypertensive nephropathy eventually progress to glomerulosclerosis. Previous studies revealed a potential role of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in the pathophysiology of glomerulosclerosis in diabetic rats. Therefore, we hypothesized that EndMT was also involved in the development of glomerulosclerosis in salt-sensitive hypertension. We aimed to explore the effects of high-salt diet on endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in glomerulosclerosis in Dahl salt-sensitive (Dahl-SS) rats.

METHODS

Eight-week-old male rats were fed high-salt (8%NaCl; DSH group) or normal salt (0.3%NaCl; DSN group) for eight weeks, with systolic blood pressure (SBP), serum creatinine, urea, 24-hour urinary protein/sodium, renal interlobar artery blood flow, and pathological examination measured. We also examined endothelial-(CD31) and fibrosis-related protein(α-SMA) expressions in glomeruli.

RESULTS

High-salt diet increased SBP (DSH vs. DSN, 205.2 ± 8.9 vs. 135.4 ± 7.9 mm Hg, P < 0.01), 24-hour urinary protein (132.55 ± 11.75 vs. 23.52 ± 5.94 mg/day, P < 0.05), urine sodium excretions (14.09 ± 1.49 vs. 0.47 ± 0.06 mmol/day, P < 0.05), and renal interlobar artery resistance. Glomerulosclerosis increased (26.1 ± 4.6 vs. 7.3 ± 1.6%, P < 0.05), glomerular CD31 expressions decreased while α-SMA expression increased in DSH group. Immunofluorescence staining showed that CD31 and α-SMA co-expressed in glomeruli of the DSH group. The degree of glomerulosclerosis negatively correlated with CD31 expressions (r = −0.823, P < 0.01) but positively correlated with α-SMA expressions (r = 0.936, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that a high-salt diet led to glomerulosclerosis involving the EndMT process, which played an essential role in glomerulosclerosis in hypertensive Dahl-SS rats.
Multiple antipredator behaviors in wild red-tailed monkey (Cercopithecus ascanius) groups reveal spatially distinct landscapes of fear
Authors: Fornof Lillian J , Stewart Fiona A , Piel Alex K
Published: May 2023

Foraging opportunity and predation risk act as opposing influences on an animal’s habitat use. “Landscapes of fear” (LOF), whereby one predicts the spatial distribution of predators or perceived predator presence using prey responses, are an important tool for modeling this conflict. LOF models examining perceived predation risk are often generated using a single behavioral metric, even though individuals can respond to predation pressure with multiple potential behaviors. Here, we expanded traditional LOF approaches by measuring three antipredator behaviors in wild red-tailed monkeys (Cercopithecus ascanius): aggregation, alarm calling, and vigilance. We predicted that each behavior would reveal spatially explicit regions of high risk, as each behavior may attend to different aspects of perceived predation risk. The use of different behaviors may depend upon factors such as vegetation type, age/sex class of an individual, and which other antipredator behaviors are being exhibited by group members. We collected data on two troops of monkeys in the Issa Valley, Tanzania for over 19 months and conducted 3189 group follows. We found that vegetation type varied in its effect on antipredator behavior. Monkeys conducted more antipredator behavior in more open vegetation types compared to more closed, riparian forests. The LOF models generated for each behavior mapped distinct and predominantly non-overlapping spatial regions of perceived predation risk, which was replicated across the two groups. This suggested that monkeys responded differently across their home range to specific perceived risks. Such spatially explicit behavior may indicate vegetation-specific predation risk or unique trade-offs in antipredator behavior throughout a heterogenous habitat.
Larval and adult experience and ecotype affect oviposition behavior in a niche-expanding butterfly
Authors: Braem Simon , Van Dyck Hans
Published: May 2023

Local adaptation, early-developmental and behavioral plasticity have all been suggested to be underlying mechanisms of behavioral variation. They allow organisms to cope with resource heterogeneity in time and space. However, the relative contribution of each of these drivers on niche-expansion success is still unclear. We addressed this issue by studying oviposition behavior in a butterfly (Pararge aegeria) that used to be confined to forest, but recently colonized anthropogenic areas too. We caught females of either forest or agricultural ecotype and allowed their larval offspring to experience early-habitat cues in either open field or woodland conditions. For 110 females of this transplant experiment, we monitored all oviposition-related behaviors (i.e., site selection, searching, motivation, learning) using repeated trials in outdoor flight cages with naturally occurring host grasses. We observed changes in oviposition site preference, with increasing preference for semi-shaded host grass (by vegetation or vertical structures) over consecutive egg-lays. Motivation to oviposit was most affected by larval experience (in interaction with cage environment). We also show evidence for ecotypic differentiation with the agricultural ecotype showing reduced search effort during the first trial compared to the forest ecotype. We argue that females of agricultural landscapes with fragmented resource distributions adopt a more risk-aversive oviposition strategy. Our detailed behavioral tracking under ecologically relevant conditions, stresses the importance of considering different types of behavioral plasticity to unravel a species’ success during niche expansion.
A New Stability-Indicating RP-HPLC Method for Simultaneous Quantification of Diacerein and Aceclofenac in Novel Nanoemulgel Formulation and Commercial Tablet Dosage Form in the Presence of their Major Degradation Products Using DoE Approach
Authors: Kazi Taufik M , Dandagi Panchaxari M
Published: May 2023

The present study aimed to develop a simple, robust, sensitive and effective stability-indicating reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography method for simultaneous quantification of diacerein (DCN) and aceclofenac (ACE) in novel nanoemulgel formulation and commercial tablets in the presence of their main degradation product: rhein (RH) and diclofenac sodium (DLS), respectively. A fractional factorial design was used to screen the crucial independent factors, whereas a central composite design was used for the optimization of the chromatographic conditions. The separation was carried out on Phenomenex C18 column (5 μm, 250 × 4.6 mm), using a mobile phase consisting of phosphate buffer pH 3 (0.1% v/v orthophosphoric acid) and acetonitrile (40:60 v/v) at a flow rate of 1 mL/min with detection at 264 nm. The analytes were exposed to a variety of stress conditions, including heat, alkali, acid, oxidation, photochemical, humidity and hydrolysis. DCN, ACE, RH and DLS were found to have retention times of 4.32 ± 0.15, 5.77 ± 0.07, 8.28 ± 0.20 and 9.10 ± 0.18 min, respectively. The percent recovery for all four analytes was found to be between 98 and 102, and the procedure was discovered to be linear in the range of 0.1–64 μg/mL with R2 value > 0.999. The established method was validated as per ICH guidelines and successfully used to assay DCN and ACE in their combined marketed tablet dosage form and developed nanoemulgel formulation.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum Is Associated With Increased Risk of Inflammatory Pouch-Related Complications: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Panganiban Ronaldo Paolo , Tuan Alyssa , Hart Maxwell , Pelton Mathew , Mikhail Daniella , Akhtar Sarah , Bogale Kaleb , Deiling Susan , Zhou Shouhao , Coates Mathew D , Yochum Gregory S , Koltun Walter
Published: May 2023

Background

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare, neutrophilic dermatosis that is a well-established extraintestinal manifestation (EIM) of inflammatory bowel disease. The clinical implications of developing PG in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) who undergo total proctocolectomy colectomy and ileal pouch anal anastomosis (TPC-IPAA) surgery remain unknown.

Methods

Study participants were selected from patients enrolled in the Carlino Family Inflammatory Bowel and Colorectal Disease Biobank between 1998 and 2021 with a pre-colectomy diagnosis of UC and who underwent TPC-IPAA surgery. A retrospective study comparing patients with PG and those without PG was performed. The outcomes measured included the development of pouchitis, pouchitis classification, presence of pouch fistula, anal fistula, anal stenosis, and pouch failure.

Results

In this study, 357 IPAA patients were included, 10 of whom suffered PG. Patients with PG and without PG had similar demographics and clinical characteristics. Both groups had similar rates of pouchitis (80% in PG patients and 64% in patients without PG, P = .504). However, IPAA patients with PG had a higher risk of developing pouch fistula (50% vs 10%, P = .002), anal fistula (40% vs 12%, P = .031), and Crohn’s-like disease of the pouch (70% vs 15%, P = .003) compared to patients without PG. Patients who developed PG prior to their first episode of pouchitis were more likely to eventually experience pouch failure (odds ratio: 20.7, 95% confidence interval: 3.9, 110.7, q = 0.003 after false discovery rate adjustment).

Conclusions

Among UC patients who undergo TPC-IPAA surgery, the development of PG portends poor pouch outcomes and is predictive of pouch failure.
Clinical relevance and prognostic value of renal Doppler in acute decompensated precapillary pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Pichon Jérémie , Roche Anne , Fauvel Charles , Boucly Athénais , Mercier Olaf , Ebstein Nathan , Beurnier Antoine , Cortese Jonathan , Jevnikar Mitja , Jaïs Xavier , Fartoukh Muriel , Fadel Elie , Sitbon Olivier , Montani David , Voiriot Guillaume , Humbert Marc , Savale Laurent
Published: May 2023

Aims

We aim to evaluate the clinical relevance and the prognostic value of arterial and venous renal Doppler in acute decompensated precapillary pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Methods and results

The renal resistance index (RRI) and the Doppler-derived renal venous stasis index (RVSI) were monitored at admission and on Day 3 in a prospective cohort of precapillary PH patients managed in intensive care unit for acute right heart failure (RHF). The primary composite endpoint included death, circulatory assistance, urgent transplantation, or rehospitalization for acute RHF within 90 days following inclusion. Ninety-one patients were enrolled (58% female, age 58 ± 16 years). The primary endpoint event occurred in 32 patients (33%). In univariate logistic regression analysis, variables associated with RRI higher than the median value were non-variable parameters (age and history of hypertension), congestion (right atrial pressure and renal pulse pressure), cardiac function [tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and left ventricular outflow tract- velocity time integral], systemic pressures and NT-proBNP. Variables associated with RVSI higher than the median value were congestion (high central venous pressure, right atrial pressure, and renal pulse pressure), right cardiac function (TAPSE), severe tricuspid regurgitation, and systemic pressures. Inotropic support was more frequently required in patients with high RRI (P = 0.01) or high RVSI (P = 0.003) at the time of admission. At Day 3, a RRI value <0.9 was associated with a better prognosis after adjusting to the estimated glomerular filtration rate.

Conclusion

Renal Doppler provides additional information to assess the severity of patients admitted to the intensive care unit for acute decompensated precapillary PH.
Causal relationships between the gut microbiome, blood lipids, and heart failure: a Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Dai Huajie , Hou Tianzhichao , Wang Qi , Hou Yanan , Wang Tiange , Zheng Jie , Lin Hong , Zhao Zhiyun , Li Mian , Wang Shuangyuan , Zhang Di , Dai Meng , Zheng Ruizhi , Lu Jieli , Xu Yu , Chen Yuhong , Ning Guang , Wang Weiqing , Bi Yufang , Xu Min
Published: May 2023

Aims

Studies have linked gut microbiome and heart failure (HF). However, their causal relationships and potential mediating factors have not been well defined. To investigate the causal relationships between the gut microbiome and HF and the mediating effect of potential blood lipids by using genetics.

Methods and results

We performed a bidirectional and mediation Mendelian randomization (MR) study using summary statistics from the genome-wide association studies of gut microbial taxa (Dutch Microbiome Project, n = 7738), blood lipids (UK Biobank, n = 115 078), and a meta-analysis of HF (115 150 cases and 1550 331 controls). We applied the inverse–variance weighted estimation method as the primary method, with several other estimators as complementary methods. The multivariable MR approach based on Bayesian model averaging (MR-BMA) was used to prioritize the most likely causal lipids. Six microbial taxa are suggestively associated with HF causally. The most significant taxon was the species Bacteroides dorei [odds ratio = 1.059, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.022–1.097, P-value = 0.0017]. The MR-BMA analysis showed that apolipoprotein B (ApoB) was the most likely causal lipid for HF (the marginal inclusion probability = 0.717, P-value = 0.005). The mediation MR analysis showed that ApoB mediated the causal effects of species B. dorei on HF (proportion mediated = 10.1%, 95% CI = 0.2–21.6%, P-value = 0.031).

Conclusion

The study suggested a causal relationship between specific gut microbial taxa and HF and that ApoB might mediate this relationship as the primary lipid determinant of HF.
The vulnerability to COVID-19 of migrants in large urban areas: structural exacerbators and community-level mitigators
Authors: Hitch Lisa , Masoud Dima , Hobbs Laura Ansley , Moujabber Marvy , Cravero Kathleen
Published: May 2023

Background

Despite research on large urban areas in the context of COVID-19, evidence on how these settings impact migrants is still limited.

Objective

To explore exacerbating and mitigating factors of large urban areas on migrants’ vulnerabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2022, focused on migrants (foreign-born individuals who have not been naturalized in the host country, regardless of legal immigration status) in urban areas with a population >500 000. After screening 880 studies, 29 studies were included and categorized within the following thematic framework: (i) pre-existing inequities, (ii) governance strategies, (iii) urban design and (iv) engagement of civil society organizations (CSOs).

Results

Exacerbating factors include pre-existing inequities (e.g. unemployment, financial instability and barriers to healthcare access), exclusionary government responses (e.g. ineligibility for relief funds or unemployment benefits) and residential segregation. Mitigating community-level factors include the engagement of CSOs to fill institutional and governmental gaps through service provision and use of technology.

Conclusions

We recommend increased attention to pre-existing structural inequities faced by migrants, more inclusive governance strategies and partnerships between government and CSOs to improve the design and delivery of services to migrants in large urban areas. More research is needed on how urban design can be utilized to mitigate COVID-19 impacts on migrant communities. The factors identified in this systematic review should be considered as part of migrant-inclusive emergency preparedness strategies to address the disproportionate impact of health crises on migrant communities.
The best laid plans?: international governance perspectives in AMR national action plans in Europe
Authors: Carelli Daniel E , Mitsouli Elisavet T , Ogne Josefin B , Pierre Jon
Published: May 2023

Background

There is a broad consensus in the European public health community that international collaboration and coordination are key in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Yet, while experts typically testify the importance of cross-national learning and a coordinated effort to reduce the spread of multi-resistant bacteria, there are mixed views about how that is best realized in practice, particularly on the dichotomy between horizontal and vertical activities.

Methods

National action plans (NAP) from all EU member states were systematically overviewed by two independent researchers. We followed a fixed procedure for locating a broad and comparable content on the international dimensions, and letting these vary on scales.

Results

We find that countries adhere to four different strategies for international coordination, varying between ‘high’ and ‘low’ on values of vertical and horizontal activities. Most countries spend none or very little space to discuss international activities, while some countries use their NAPs to outline their aspiration for taking leading roles in the international struggle. Moreover, in line with previous research, we find that many countries directly mimic the Global Action Plan, but also that a large share of countries describe independent arrangements in their international strategies.

Conclusions

European countries recognize AMR and its inherent international governance challenge differently in their NAPs, which may have implications for coordinated action to address the issue.
The small intestine: dining table of host–microbiota meetings
Authors: Delbaere Karen , Roegiers Inez , Bron Auriane , Durif Claude , Van de Wiele Tom , Blanquet-Diot Stéphanie , Marinelli Ludovica
Published: May 2023

Growing evidence suggests the importance of the small intestinal bacteria in the diet–host–microbiota dialogue in various facets of health and disease. Yet, this body site is still poorly explored and its ecology and mechanisms of interaction with the host are just starting to be unraveled. In this review, we describe the current knowledge on the small intestinal ecology, its composition and diversity, and how the intestinal bacteria in homeostatic conditions participate in nutrient digestion and absorption. We illustrate the importance of a controlled bacterial density and of the preservation of absorptive surface for the host’s nutritional status. In particular, we discuss these aspects of the small intestinal environment in the framework of two disease conditions, namely small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and short bowel syndrome (SBS). We also detail in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro models developed to simulate the small intestinal environment, some applied for (diet–)host–bacteria interaction studies. Lastly, we highlight recent technological, medical, and scientific advances applicable to investigate this complex and yet understudied body environment to broaden our knowledge in support of further progress in the medical practice, and to proceed towards the integration of the (small)intestinal bacteria in personalized therapeutic approaches.
The Molecular Circadian Clock of Phox2b-expressing Cells Drives Daily Variation of the Hypoxic but Not Hypercapnic Ventilatory Response in Mice
Authors: Jones Aaron A , Marino Gabriella M , Spears Allison R , Arble Deanna M
Published: May 2023

While the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) controls 24-h rhythms in breathing, including minute ventilation (VE), the mechanisms by which the SCN drives these daily changes are not well understood. Moreover, the extent to which the circadian clock regulates hypercapnic and hypoxic ventilatory chemoreflexes is unknown. We hypothesized that the SCN regulates daily breathing and chemoreflex rhythms by synchronizing the molecular circadian clock of cells. We used whole-body plethysmography to assess ventilatory function in transgenic BMAL1 knockout (KO) mice to determine the role of the molecular clock in regulating daily rhythms in ventilation and chemoreflex. Unlike their wild-type littermates, BMAL1 KO mice exhibited a blunted daily rhythm in VE and failed to demonstrate daily variation in the hypoxic ventilatory response (HVR) or hypercapnic ventilatory response (HCVR). To determine if the observed phenotype was mediated by the molecular clock of key respiratory cells, we then assessed ventilatory rhythms in BMAL1fl/fl; Phox2bCre/+ mice, which lack BMAL1 in all Phox2b-expressing chemoreceptor cells (hereafter called BKOP). BKOP mice lacked daily variation in HVR, similar to BMAL1 KO mice. However, unlike BMAL1 KO mice, BKOP mice exhibited circadian variations in VE and HCVR comparable to controls. These data indicate that the SCN regulates daily rhythms in VE, HVR, and HCVR, in part, through the synchronization of the molecular clock. Moreover, the molecular clock of Phox2b-expressing cells is specifically necessary for daily variation in the hypoxic chemoreflex. These findings suggest that disruption of circadian biology may undermine respiratory homeostasis, which, in turn, may have clinical implications for respiratory disease.