bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A supervised machine learning model for determining lubricant oil operating conditions
Authors: Malaguti Roney , Lourenço Nuno , Silva Cristovão
Published: August 2022

Machine learning tools for analysing lubricating oil data have enabled better information in the condition based maintenance (CBM) approach to the process of diagnosing and predicting failures in diesel‐powered vehicle fleets. With the increase in the number of sensors inserted in vehicles, it is possible for companies to stockpile large quantities of information in real time. As such, the development of data‐driven tools will enable accurate identification of the level of wear of a system, evolving CBM into a more reliable and dynamic approach. Following this type of data‐based analysis focusing on determining the wear of systems and equipment, this paper presents an intelligent system for assessing the condition of lubricating oil in automotive diesel engines. To this end, we analyse the use of raw data obtained from the sensors installed in the car and evaluate in conjunction with the insertion of engineered features designed the best way to determine the operating state of the oils. The results presented in this analysis show that to explain 90% of the variation in the original data only the variables kinematic viscosity, dynamic viscosity, engine oil temperature and OSF_v3 are needed. After evaluating the quality of the variables, we conducted an experimental study to analyse the performance of various machine learning algorithms, taking into account the number of features as input data. The results show that the proposed system has the ability to identify the operating conditions of lubricating oil using seven variables as input to a model based on gradient boosting, obtaining a recall result of 93%, precision of 96% and F1‐score of 94%. We conducted a set of additional studies to understand how different subsets of variables affected the performance of the models, and the results show that the best combination includes information regarding the engine speed, coolant and oil temperature, oil pressure, the oil stress factor (OSF_v3), kinematic viscosity, and the dynamic viscosity.
Strong genetic differentiation between fragmented alpine bush‐cricket populations demands preservation of evolutionary significant units
Authors: Martinez‐Sañudo Isabel , Basso Andrea , Ortis Giacomo , Marangoni Federico , Stancher Gionata , Mazzon Luca
Published: August 2022

The eastern alpine bush cricket, Anonconotus italoaustriacus Nadig, 1987, is a grassland species historically present in a few disjunct ranges in north‐eastern Italy and High Tauern in Austria. The species has recently been included in the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as an endangered species with a decreasing population trend.

Information regarding the genetic structure of endangered insect populations and the delineation of evolutionary significant units (ESUs) are nowadays a useful and integral component of many conservation plans. The genetic differentiation of A. italoaustriacus populations was studied through the analysis of four fragments of the mitochondrial DNA in five disjunct populations, covering the entire Italian geographical distribution known for this taxon and partially the Austrian distribution.

Results revealed a strong geographical structure among populations and complete absence of gene flow suggesting the need to protect these evolutionary distinct lineages. Divergence time estimation analyses suggested that an ancient separation of bush‐cricket populations occurred approximately 1–1.5 Mya.

Since the A. italoaustriacus populations represented genetically differentiated entities, conservation efforts should consider each population as a management unit. Conservation actions, preceded by detailed ecological studies and focused on monitoring, preserving and enlarging the existing habitat patches are thus proposed.
Preparation and properties of porous Al2O3‐based ceramics by gel casting using MgO as a gelling and consolidating agent
Authors: Piao Jiasi , Tang Yudong , Li Chengfeng , Bai Jiahai
Published: August 2022

Low‐cost and environment‐friendly MgO was used as a new gelling and consolidating agent to fabricate porous Al2O3‐based ceramics via a gel casting routine. Effects of 800°C calcined additions of MgO (.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 wt%, respectively) on open porosity (OP), pore size distribution, gas flux, and microstructure of the porous ceramics were investigated deliberately. The experimental results showed that 800°C calcined MgO exhibits excellent gelling and consolidating performance at 80°C, mainly owing to the hydration reaction between MgO and H2O and thus results in high‐quality porous Al2O3‐based ceramics without deformation and cracking. The Al2O3–water suspensions with different MgO additions have good flowability at room temperature. Moreover, water absorption, open porosity, and gas flux of the as‐prepared porous ceramics increase remarkably with rising of MgO addition. Furthermore, MgO addition significantly suppresses the abnormal growth of Al2O3 grains, and thus the microstructure of the porous Al2O3‐based ceramics becomes more uniform. This technique of gel casting using MgO as a new gelling and consolidating agent offers an alternative routine for a large‐scale production of porous ceramics.
Effect of extrusion and enzyme modification on functional and structural properties of pea peel (Pisum sativum L.) insoluble dietary fibre and its effect on yogurt rheology
Authors: Kumari Tapasya , Das Amit Baran , Deka Sankar Chandra
Published: August 2022

The enzyme and extrusion modifications of insoluble dietary fibre (IDF) of green pea peel were done to improve the functional and structural properties. The effect of the modified IDF on the yogurt rheology was also examined. The enzyme treatment was done with different concentrations of cellulase and xylanase, while the extrusion modification was done with different cooking temperatures. The typical honeycomb morphology of control IDF got changed after both modifications. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area ranged from 11.892 to 15.358 m2 g−1 for enzyme‐modified sample. Enzyme‐modified IDF (M2) sample showed higher water retention capacity (3.25 g g−1), swelling capacity (8.89 mL g−1), oil absorption capacity (3.25 g g−1), cation exchange capacity (0.86 mmol g−1) and glucose adsorption capacity (4.73 mM) as compared to the extrusion‐modified samples. The glucose dialysis retardation index (GDRI) was significantly higher for enzyme‐modified samples (P < 0.05). The addition of modified IDF to yogurt changed oscillatory rheological and viscoelastic behaviour, which was linear and enhanced supramolecular interaction during gel formation. The results of the present investigation exhibited a method of customising IDF for food fortification.
CD137L and CD4 T cells limit BCL6‐expressing pre‐germinal center B cell expansion and BCL6‐driven B cell malignancy
Authors: Ding Zhoujie , Quast Isaak , Yan Feng , Liao Yang , Pitt Catherine , O‐Donnell Kristy , Robinson Marcus J , Shi Wei , Kallies Axel , Zotos Dimitra , Tarlinton David M
Published: August 2022

Aberrant expression of the proto‐oncogene BCL6 is a driver of tumorigenesis in diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Mice overexpressing BCL6 from the B cell‐specific immunoglobulin heavy chain μ intron promoter (Iμ‐Bcl6Tg/+) develop B cell lymphomas with features typical of human DLBCL. While the development of B cell lymphoma in these mice is tightly controlled by T cells, the mechanisms of this immune surveillance are poorly understood. Here we show that CD4 T cells contribute to the control of lymphoproliferative disease in lymphoma‐prone Iμ‐Bcl6Tg/+ mice. We reveal that this CD4 T cell immuno‐surveillance requires signaling by the co‐stimulatory molecule CD137 ligand (CD137L; also known as 4‐1BBL), which may promote the transition of pre‐malignant B cells with an activated phenotype into the germinal center stage via reverse signaling, preventing their hazardous accumulation. Thus, CD137L‐mediated CD4 T cell immuno‐surveillance adds another layer of protection against B cell malignancy to that provided by CD8 T cell cytotoxicity.
Bacterial invasion into the epidermis of rats with sodium lauryl sulphate‐irritated skin increases damage and induces incontinence‐associated dermatitis
Authors: Koudounas Sofoklis , Minematsu Takeo , Mugita Yuko , Nakai Ayano , Tobe Hiromi , Takizawa Chihiro , Kunimitsu Mao , Nakagami Gojiro , Sanada Hiromi
Published: August 2022

Incontinence‐associated dermatitis (IAD) is caused by prolonged exposure to urine/liquid stool. It is a common and often painful skin condition in older incontinent adults because of poor prevention. Patients with urinary infections are at risk of developing IAD, and to guide the development of novel prevention strategies, we aimed to develop an animal model of IAD by urine and bacteria. First, contralateral sites on the dorsal skin of Sprague–Dawley rats were compromised by sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), simulating frequent cleansing with soap/water. Filter discs were then placed inside ring‐shaped chambers on foam dressings, inoculated with or without Pseudomonas aeruginosa, covered with agarose gels immersed in cultured filtrated urine, and secured in place with an occlusive dressing for 3 days. Untreated and SLS‐compromised sites served as controls. The IAD was developed at bacteria‐inoculated sites, characterised by severe IAD‐like redness that persisted for up to 3 days post‐exposure and higher disruption of the skin barrier function compared with non‐inoculated sites. Pathological changes included epidermal thickening, partial skin loss, inflammatory cell infiltration, accumulation of red blood cells, and invasion of bacteria into the epidermis. This novel, clinically relevant IAD rat model can serve for future prevention developments.
Photosynthetic characteristics of subtending leaves and their relationships with soybean pod development under heat, drought and combined stresses
Authors: Du Xiangbei , Zhang Xinyue , Wei Zhi , Lei Weixia , Hu Guoyu , Huang Zhiping , Kong Lingcong
Published: August 2022

Soybean is usually grown under rain‐fed conditions, and long‐term drought stress often occurs with short‐term heat stress. This study aimed to investigate changes in the photosynthetic characteristics of subtending leaves and their relationships with pod development under short‐term heat, long‐term drought and their combined stresses. Short‐term heat stress lasted for 5 days began at R5 stage, and long‐term drought stress lasted from R5 stage until maturity, respectively. No significant effect was observed on pod development under short‐term heat stress alone due to unaffected net photosynthetic rate after treatment and PSII recovery after the heat stress release. Except that the reduction of sucrose content had been brought forward from 12 to 5 days after treatment under combined stresses, application of combined stresses caused similar responses to long‐term drought stress alone on the photosynthetic characteristics of subtending leaves and pod development, but more pronounced under combined stresses. Reduced pod weight and seed weight per pod under long‐term drought stress alone or combined stress due to a decrease in the net photosynthetic rate and production of sucrose and starch, especially after 19 days of treatment. Findings from this study demonstrate that under combined stress, long‐term drought stress had a dominant effect on the photosynthetic performance of subtending leaves and pod development over short‐term heat stress; moreover, even short‐term heat stress also exacerbates the negative effects of long‐term drought stress.
Identification of NS5B resistance against SOFOSBUVIR in hepatitis C virus genotype 3a, naive and treated patients
Authors: Younas Saima , Sumrin Aleena , Hussain Nazim , Bilal Muhammad
Published: August 2022

Aims

Pakistan has the second highest prevalence of HCV with genotype 3a (GT-3a) being the most frequently circulating genotype. Currently, resistance-associated substitutions (RASs) are a major challenge in HCV treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Sofosbuvir (SOF) is an FDA-approved NS5B nucleotide inhibitor. The aim of this study was to identify these RASs in the NS5B gene in naive and treated Pakistani HCV 3a isolates against SOF.

Methods and Results

Blood samples were collected from anti-HCV-positive patients, followed by HCV RNA isolation and real-time PCR quantification. HCV-positive patients were processed for HCV RNA genotyping, patients with genotype 3a were processed for NS5B gene amplification and sequencing. GT-3a was the most prevalent genotype (62.2%). S282T was identified in 2 (8.7%) patients, C316Y/G/R in 3 (13%), V321A and L320P in 1 (4.3%) each in SOF/RBV-resistant patients. Variants of S282 were detected in 3 (13%) of SOF/RBV-treated patients. While INF/RBV-associated mutations were also analysed, D244N, A333R and A334E were identified in 2 (9.5%), 3 (14.2%) and 7 (33.3%) in treatment-naive and 15 (65.2%), 7 (30.4%) and 5 (21.7%) treated patients, respectively. Q309R was observed only in one treatment-experienced patients. Some substitutions were present at higher frequency in both groups like N307G, K304R, A272D and R345H, considered that they do not have any role in sofosbuvir resistance.

Conclusion

It was concluded that sofosbuvir RASs are present in Pakistani HCV GT-3a isolates, and they should be monitored carefully, especially in treatment-experienced patients, for further selection of treatment regimens.

Significance and Impact of Study

HCV RASs have been studied very well across the world but there is scarcity of data regarding this topic in Pakistani population, this study provides data regarding the prevalence of these RASs in Pakistani HCV isolates emphasizing the fact that these RASs must be carefully monitored before starting HCV treatment, especially in treatment failure patients.
One session treatment (OST) is equivalent to multi‐session cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in children with specific phobias (ASPECT): results from a national non‐inferiority randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wright Barry , Tindall Lucy , Scott Alexander J. , Lee Ellen , Cooper Cindy , Biggs Katie , Bee Penny , Wang Han‐I , Gega Lina , Hayward Emily , Solaiman Kiera , Teare M. Dawn , Davis Thompson , Wilson Jon , Lovell Karina , McMillan Dean , Barr Amy , Edwards Hannah , Lomas Jennifer , Turtle Chris , Parrott Steve , Teige Catarina , Chater Tim , Hargate Rebecca , Ali Shezhad , Parkinson Sarah , Gilbody Simon , Marshall David
Published: August 2022

Background

5%–10% children and young people (CYP) experience specific phobias that impact daily functioning. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is recommended but has limitations. One Session Treatment (OST), a briefer alternative incorporating CBT principles, has demonstrated efficacy. The Alleviating Specific Phobias Experienced by Children Trial (ASPECT) investigated the non‐inferiority of OST compared to multi‐session CBT for treating specific phobias in CYP.

Methods

ASPECT was a pragmatic, multi‐center, non‐inferiority randomized controlled trial in 26 CAMHS sites, three voluntary agency services, and one university‐based CYP well‐being service. CYP aged 7–16 years with specific phobia were randomized to receive OST or CBT. Clinical non‐inferiority and a nested cost‐effectiveness evaluation was assessed 6‐months post‐randomization using the Behavioural Avoidance Task (BAT). Secondary outcome measures included the Anxiety Disorder Interview Schedule, Child Anxiety Impact Scale, Revised Children's Anxiety Depression Scale, goal‐based outcome measure, and EQ‐5DY and CHU‐9D, collected blind at baseline and six‐months.

Results

268 CYPs were randomized to OST (n = 134) or CBT (n = 134). Mean BAT scores at 6 months were similar across groups in both intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and per‐protocol (PP) populations (CBT: 7.1 (ITT, n = 76), 7.4 (PP, n = 57), OST: 7.4 (ITT, n = 73), 7.6 (PP, n = 56), on the standardized scale‐adjusted mean difference for CBT compared to OST ‐0.123, 95% CI −0.449 to 0.202 (ITT), mean difference −0.204, 95% CI −0.579 to 0.171 (PP)). These findings were wholly below the standardized non‐inferiority limit of 0.4, suggesting that OST is non‐inferior to CBT. No between‐group differences were found on secondary outcomes. OST marginally decreased mean service use costs and maintained similar mean Quality Adjusted Life Years compared to CBT.

Conclusions

One Session Treatment has similar clinical effectiveness to CBT for specific phobias in CYP and may be a cost‐saving alternative.
In vitro versus in planta: Comparing the compatibility of Akanthomyces lecanii with pesticides against Trialeurodes vaporariorum
Authors: Mejía Cindy , Espinel Carlos
Published: August 2022

Lecabiol® is a registered biopesticide based on the entomopathogenic fungus Akanthomyces lecanii (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) for the control of the greenhouse whitefly Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in tomato crops. This product is commonly applied with several pesticides and fungicides in integrated pest management programs, and a reduction in efficacy is expected. The present work aimed to evaluate the compatibility of A. lecanii with pesticides used in tomato. Three insecticides (bifenthrin, chlorfenapyr and spinetoram) and six fungicides (dimethomorph, kasugamycin, metalaxyl:mancozeb, difenoconazole, pyrimethanil and propineb: cymoxanil) were tested in vitro and in planta. The compatibility was determined by using the biological index (BI). For in vitro test, germination, mycelial growth and conidial production were evaluated, and for in planta, the mixture of pesticide + fungus and alternating applications was carried out to assess the efficacy to control the pest. The insecticide chlorfenapyr was compatible in vitro (BI = 78) but moderately toxic (BI = 52) when the product was applied as a mixture with the fungus to control T. vaporariorum in planta; in contrast, bifenthrin was initially classified as moderately toxic (BI = 57) but was compatible in planta (BI = 71). The fungicides dimethomorph and kasugamycin were compatible (BI = 81–97); propineb: cymoxanil was moderately toxic (BI = 51), and metalaxyl:mancozeb and difenoconazole were toxic (BI = 0–37) in vitro, whereas most fungicides were moderately toxic or toxic when evaluated in planta. The pesticides spinetoram and pyrimethanil remained compatible in both assays (BI = 85–90). For the alternating application, the fungicides dimethomorph and pyrimethanil significantly diminished the efficacy of the fungi below 40% to control T. vaporariorum. The findings demonstrate that compatibility of the fungus with insecticides and fungicides varied among in vitro and in planta assessments (combined or via alternation).
Survival, growth and tag retention of juvenile European eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) with implanted 12 mm passive integrated transponder tags and acoustic tags
Authors: Jepsen Niels , Richter Luise , Pedersen Michael Ingemann , Deng Zhiqun (Daniel)
Published: August 2022

To evaluate the efficiency of tagging juvenile European eels with implanted 12 mm passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags or Eel/Lamprey acoustic transmitters (ELATs), the authors studied tag retention, survival and growth of eels (7–25 g). Experimental eels were obtained from an eel farm, tagged and then released in a series of shallow dug‐out ponds with a surface area of c. 200 m2. Tagged and control eels were distributed evenly, with 50 tagged and 50 control eels in each of four ponds, giving a total of 200 tagged and 200 control eels mixed. After 76 days, the ponds were drained, and eels were sampled and measured. A total of 344 eels (86%) were recaptured, indicating high survival. Tag retention was 99% as only one of the recaptured PIT‐tagged eels had lost the tag and none of the ELAT tagged. The results demonstrated that tagging juvenile eels >16 cm with these small tags is indeed feasible. The growth of tagged and control fish was differentiated but generally low in length and negative in mass but did not differ between the three groups.
Is every day at home a good day?
Authors: Ankuda Claire K. , Grabowski David C.
Published: August 2022

This Editorial comments on the articles by Freed et al. and Shen et al. in this issue.
Thickness profiling of electron transparent aluminium alloy foil using convergent beam electron diffraction
Authors: Bendo Artenis , Moshtaghi Masoud , Smith Matthew , Jin Zelong , Xiong Yida , Matsuda Kenji , Zhou Xiaorong
Published: August 2022

Convergent beam electron diffraction (CBED) was used to profile the thickness of aluminium alloys foils prepared by using the twinjet electropolishing method. The two‐beam CBED condition was obtained by exciting the and aluminium diffracted g‐vector. The aluminium alloy foil thicknesses were calculated at different distances from the sample hole edge. In areas where only one Kossel–Möllenstedt (K–M) minima fringe was obtained, the thickness was determined by matching the experimental with simulated convergent beam diffraction patterns. In areas far away from the sample edge, the thickness of foils was high enough to generate at least two (K–M) minima fringes, required for linear regression fitting.
Postpartum degeneration of adenomyosis with diffuse cyst‐like changes and localized hemorrhage detected by sequential magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Ichinose Mari , Iriyama Takayuki , Sayama Seisuke , Toshimitsu Masatake , Seyama Takahiro , Sone Kenbun , Kumasawa Keiichi , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Hanaoka Shouhei , Osuga Yutaka
Published: August 2022

Imaging and histological changes occurring in adenomyosis due to pregnancy are unclear. A 38‐year‐old nulliparous woman presented with dysmenorrhea and infertility. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed diffuse‐type adenomyosis. Following pregnancy by in vitro fertilization, she was hospitalized at 23 weeks of gestation due to fetal growth restriction and subsequently diagnosed with preeclampsia. A second MRI performed due to an elevated inflammatory response at 31 weeks of gestation detected no obvious degenerative findings. An emergency cesarean section was performed at 33 weeks of gestation because of nonreassuring fetal status. On postpartum day 2, she showed uterine tenderness with a dramatically elevated inflammatory response. A third MRI showed cyst‐like degenerations with hemorrhagic changes without abscess. By postpartum day 7, she was quickly relieved and discharged from the hospital. A fourth MRI at postpartum month 4 confirmed the disappearance of degenerations. This is the first report of imaging findings of early postpartum degeneration of adenomyosis.
An analysis of factors associated with neonatal, post‐neonatal and child mortality in Haiti, including breastfeeding as a time‐dependent variable
Authors: Forde Ian , Tripathi Vrijesh
Published: August 2022

Aim

The main objective of the study was to identify factors associated with neonatal, post‐neonatal and child mortality. The study also investigated breastfeeding status as a time‐dependent variable.

Methods

The 2016–2017 Haitian Demographic and Health Survey was analysed. The analysis was done on 6530 live births. Time‐constant and time‐dependent multivariable Royston–Parmar spline models were used to identify associated factors for all three age groups. Restricted mean survival times were calculated for the different levels of the breastfeeding variable for each age group.

Results

Neonates and post‐neonates who were not breastfed were associated with increased mortality, hazard ratio (HR) 22.13 (95% confidence interval (CI), 16.40–29.87) and HR 4.99 (95% CI, 3.29–7.56), respectively. Males in the child age group were associated with increased mortality, HR 2.04 (95% CI, 1.29–3.23) and HR 2.03 (95% CI, 1.28–3.21) under the time‐constant and time‐dependent models, respectively.

Conclusions

Early initiation of breastfeeding and breastfeeding throughout the post‐neonatal period is recommended. Outreach programmes that provide support and education for vulnerable families are also recommended.
Assessment of technical, economic, and allocative efficiencies of shrimp farming in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Authors: Duy Duong The , Nga Nguyen Hong , Berg Håkan , Da Chau Thi
Published: August 2022

This study applied a stochastic frontier production model to analyze the technical (TE), allocative (AE), and economic (EE) efficiencies of intensive shrimp farming households, and to identify socioeconomic and shrimp farm‐specific factors (farm size, labor, feed, seed, chemicals/medicine) that influence the TE, AE, and EE of shrimp production in the Ca Mau, Ben Tre, Bac Lieu, and Tra Vinh provinces of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The AE was calculated based on TE and EE. The stochastic frontier production and cost function model were used to evaluate the EE and TE at the shrimp farming household level. The results showed that the mean TE, AE, and EE of shrimp farming systems were 75%, 68.5%, and 61.4%, respectively. Age, gender, education, experience, cooperatives, and technical training significantly impacted the efficiency of shrimp production. The results suggest that shrimp farmers can improve shrimp productivity and EE by decreasing feed cost (FEE) and medicine/chemical cost (MED) of farm inputs. The study showed that shrimp farmers who participated in training activities, cooperatives, or management boards of aquaculture associations were more technically efficient than other farmers. The findings of this study provide essential information about the TE, AE, and EE of shrimp production, which can help local policy makers and shrimp farmers in the region to make better decisions on how to improve the EE and sustainability of shrimp production in the future. There is a need for recommendations on how to improve policies, technical guidance, and training courses on feed management and feeding practices, water quality, and disease management, to help shrimp farmers in the coastal provinces of the Mekong Delta to improve their shrimp production efficiencies in the future.
Sustained plumage divergence despite weak genomic differentiation and broad sympatry in sister species of Australian woodswallows (Artamus spp.)
Authors: Peñalba Joshua V. , Peters Jeffrey L. , Joseph Leo
Published: July 2022

Plumage divergence can function as a strong premating barrier when species come into secondary contact. When it fails to do so, the results are often genome homogenization and phenotypic hybrids at the zone of contact. This is not the case in the largely sympatric masked woodswallow and white‐browed woodswallow species (Passeriformes: Artamidae: Artamus spp) complex in Australia where phenotypic integrity is sustained despite no discernible mitochondrial structure in earlier work. This lack of structure may suggest recent divergence, ongoing gene flow or both, and phenotypic hybrids are reported albeit rarely. Here, we further assessed the population structure and differentiation across the species' nuclear genomes using ddRAD‐seq. As found in the mitochondrial genome, no structure or divergence within or between the two species was detected in the nuclear genome. This coarse sampling of the genome nonetheless revealed peaks of differentiation around the genes SOX5 and AXIN1. Both are involved in the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway, which regulates feather development. Reconstruction of demographic history and estimation of parameters supports a scenario of secondary contact. Our study informs how divergent plumage morphs may arise and be sustained despite whole‐genome homogenization and reveals new candidate genes potentially involved in plumage divergence.
Computational generation of multiphase asphalt nanostructures using random fields
Authors: Aljarrah Mohammad , Karaki Ayman , Masad Eyad , Castillo Daniel , Caro Silvia , Little Dallas
Published: August 2022

This study presents a novel methodology to generate computational replicates of nanostructures of multiphase materials, such as asphalt binders, by integrating image analysis techniques with stochastic random field (RF) modeling. Image analysis techniques are used to identify and segment nanostructure images obtained by atomic force microscopy, while RF is used to model the spatial distribution of their material properties. The results of this process are images showing probable arrangements of nanostructures with stochastic material properties that replicate the experimentally obtained images. The computationally generated nanostructures are then used as inputs in a finite element model to evaluate the effect of heterogeneity on their mechanical response. The efficacy of the developed approach is demonstrated through simulations of asphalt binders’ nanostructures, which reveal novel insights regarding their nanoscale mechanical behavior and response. The FE simulations provided the link between the distribution of nanoscale properties of asphalt binders and variations in their mechanical response. The application of this methodology expands the body of knowledge beyond the deterministic analysis of asphalt binders toward probabilistic analysis and uncertainty quantification that considers their heterogeneous, multiphase structures. Consequently, the methodology can be used to design multiphase materials, such as asphaltic blends, with tailored properties and enhanced performance.
Evaluation of the condition of inpatients in acute care hospitals in Japan
Authors: Hayashida Kenshi , Moriwaki Mutsuko , Murakami Genki
Published: August 2022

This retrospective, multicenter, descriptive study aimed to evaluate the conditions of inpatients in acute care hospitals using the Severity of a Patient's Condition and Extent of a Patient's Need for Medical/Nursing Care tool. The study included 4 234 253 patients admitted to acute care hospitals in Japan between April 2019 and March 2020. Electrocardiographic monitoring, provision of respiratory care, and administration of antiarrhythmic agent injections and treatment were performed in a sterile room for >20%, >10%, and <1% of patient‐days, respectively. More than 40% of inpatients needed support with performing activities of daily living, such as dressing and undressing, turning over, and oral care. The proportion of patients requiring daily medical/nursing care was generally high at the beginning of hospitalization, gradually decreased, and subsequently increased. Patients in acute care hospitals in Japan were not hospitalized unnecessarily early or for inappropriately long periods, and the efficiency of medical care improved over time. The Severity of a Patient's Condition and Extent of a Patient's Need for Medical/Nursing Care tool is useful for evaluating patient conditions in acute care hospitals.
Microscopic and ultramicroscopic anatomical characteristics of root nodules in Podocarpus macrophyllus during development
Authors: Zhu Li‐Qiong , Chen Hui‐Xin , Zhao Li‐Jun , Jiang Wei‐Xin
Published: August 2022

To understand the morphological and structural characteristics of root nodules in Podocarpus macrophyllus and their development, this study prepared P. macrophyllus root nodule samples at the young, mature and senescent stages. Optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that new nodules can be formed on roots and senescent nodules; new nodules formed on the roots are nearly spherical and have an internal structure similar to finite nodules; new nodules on senescent nodules are formed by extension and differentiation of the vascular cylinder of the original nodules; and these new nodules are nested at the base of the original nodules, which create growth space for new nodules by dissociating the cortical tissue; clusters of nodules are formed after extensive accumulation, and the growth pattern is similar to that of infinite nodules; the symbiotic bacteria of P. macrophyllus root nodules mainly invade from the epidermal intercellular space of the roots and migrate along the intercellular space of the nodule cortex; infected nodule cortex cells have a well‐developed inner membrane system and enlarged and loose nuclei; and unique Frankia vesicles, and rhizobia cysts, and bacteriophages can all develop. Compared with common leguminous and nonleguminous plant nodules, P. macrophyllus root nodules are more complex in morphology, structure and composition. From the perspective of plant system evolution, the nodules in P. macrophyllus most likely represent two evolutionary patterns inlcuding the Rhizobium nodules in leguminous angiosperms and Frankia nodules in nonleguminous angiosperms. The conclusion of this study provides a theoretical basis for the developmental biology of P. macrophyllus root nodules and the evolutionary pattern of plant symbionts.
miR‐20a‐5p regulated SMAD6 to inhibit chondrogenesis of hDPSCs
Authors: Pan Xuefeng , Huang Xinqi , Zhang Bo , Pei Fang , Zhao Zhihe , Cen Xiao
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Chondrogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) is highly promising for cartilage repair. The specific mechanism, however, still needs to be explicated.

Materials and Methods

In this study, we isolated hDPSCs and transfected cells with lentiviruses containing an over‐expression, knock‐down, or negative control of miR‐20a‐5p. Three‐D pellet cultures of hDPSCs were used for the chondrogenic induction. Following the pellet culture period, chondrogenesis was assessed by histological and immunohistochemical analysis and expression of chondrogenic‐related genes. Dual‐luciferase report assay was performed to determine potential targeted genes of miR‐20a‐5p, and the phosphorylation levels of P65 and IκBα were explored. Animal experiments were performed to determine the effect of miR‐20a‐5p on cartilage regeneration.

Results

miR‐20a‐5p was showed to repress the expression of SMAD6 to inhibit the chondrogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. Accordingly, the knock‐down of miR‐20a‐5p promoted cartilage regeneration in the osteochondral defects of rats. Mechanically, it is indicated that NF‐κB signaling is the potential down‐stream network of miR‐20a‐5p/Smad6 crosstalk during chondrogenic differentiation.

Conclusions

miR‐20a‐5p could target SMAD6 to activate NF‐κB signaling pathway, and thus inhibit chondrogenesis of hDPSCs, which provided promising therapeutic target for cartilage defects clinically.
Strategic alignment of pricing oil products from Brent conditionally on market regimes using Markov and cluster‐based switching dynamics
Authors: Theodorou Petros , Apokoritis Nikos
Published: August 2022

Asymmetries and non‐linearities in oil prices are of high importance for energy policy and strategy. The effectiveness of energy policy depends heavily on the ‘conceptualization’ of states, regimes and less on the absolute price level. Based on the strategic alignment theory and the matching perspective, we claim that recurring oil market dynamics showcase the existence of various regimes across which pricing relationships differ. Regimes are examined by combining two methodologies: Cluster‐based Regression (CBR) and Markov‐Switching Dynamic Regression (MSDR). CBR identifies spatial regimes by clustering Brent as a proxy variable, while MSDR identifies temporal regimes by presuming a probabilistic superposition of states which transition as a discrete time Markov chain. Results have both policy and methodology contributions. A reversion and a cyclicality phenomenon in pricing, resembles the Joseph and Noah effects in terms of persistence, expected duration and probability of transition. CBR describes a serial process in pricing from ‘bull’ to ‘bear’ and then to ‘transitory’ state. Differences in asymmetry and high price premiums, conditionally on market states, are detected among products. Matching probabilities show robustness of results.
A brief light reduction induces a significant delay in the previously dimmed eye
Authors: Min Seung Hyun , Reynaud Alexandre , Hess Robert F.
Published: July 2022

Purpose

We investigated how a short‐term luminance reduction in one eye can influence temporal processing of that eye after luminance is restored by measuring the relative delay between the eyes.

Methods

A paradigm based on the Pulfrich effect, which is a visual illusion of depth when no depth cue is present, was used to measure relative delay in visual processing between the eyes. We deprived the monocular luminance in adults with normal vision across different intensities. In the first experiment, the ratio of the light level between the eyes stayed constant, whereas the absolute value was allowed to vary. In the second experiment, both the ratio and the absolute light level stayed constant, by controlling the environmental light level. In both experiments, we measured the changes in relative delay before and after 60 min of light deprivation.

Results

Our results indicated that short‐term monocular deprivation of luminance slows the processing in the previously dimmed eye and that the magnitude of the delay is correlated with the degree of luminance reduction. In addition, we observed that the absolute luminance difference, rather than the absolute luminance levels seen by the dimmed eye, is important in determining the magnitude of delay in the previously dimmed eye. These findings differ from what has been reported previously for the monocular deprivation of contrast.

Conclusions

Taken together, these findings support the view that short‐term deprivation of visual information could affect two distinct mechanisms (contrast gain and temporal dynamics) of neural plasticity.
ICE‐SCREAM comes in different flavors: Angiosperms encode two types of ICE proteins predicted to differ in their regulation by OST1 and MPK3/6
Authors: Nassuth Annette , Jesionowska Monika
Published: August 2022

INDUCER OF CBF EXPRESSION (ICE) proteins reportedly have a role in cold acclimation and stomata development, but the former has recently been questioned. Our aim was to analyze ICE, OPEN STOMATA 1 (OST1) and MITOGEN ACTIVATED PROTEIN KINASE 3/6 (MPK3/6) protein data and place the results in context with reports in the literature. Orthologous protein sequences from species representative of different plant lineages were retrieved via BLAST searches and assembled into multiple sequence alignments for a comprehensive comparison of key features. We identified one type of ICE protein in bryophytes, lycophytes, ferns and angiosperms, and a second type of ICE protein in angiosperms only, each with characteristic interaction domains. Due to the higher observed similarity of the identified orthologs to proteins from Vitis riparia than to those from Arabidopsis, they were referred to as VrICE2L and VrICE4L, respectively. Regulatory sequence motifs for the kinase OST1 were present in the VrICE2L proteins although less conserved in the non‐angiosperms, whereas OST1 orthologs could be identified in all plant species, including algae. Interestingly, MPK3/6 motifs were most clearly conserved in the VrICE2L and VrICE4L proteins of the more evolved angiosperms, at a time that the A subtype of MPK3/6 kinases and the CRT‐BINDING FACTOR (CBF)‐encoding genes first appeared in the plant lineages. These data are intended to stimulate further investigations of VrICE4L proteins in non‐model plants and provide some evolutionary context into the overlap between stomatal function and regulation, and the cold acclimation pathway.
Long‐term trends of COPD mortality: Gaps and opportunities
Authors: Mannino David M. , Tal‐Singer Ruth
Published: August 2022

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Forced formalization and informal sector: A simple Chayanov model
Authors: Sengupta Atanu , De Sanjoy
Published: August 2022

Recently, the government of India has promulgated a sudden move of demonetisation. Such move can be considered as a type of forced formalization. Porta and Shleifer (2014) deals with the issue of formal informal interactions and comes out with an interesting conclusion. The informal sector does not merely exist for taking advantage of legal loopholes. Even if these loopholes are somehow stitched, the informal sector will not become formal. The clue perhaps lies in an old view expressed by Chayanov that in certain circumstances an informal sector can outperform a modern capitalist sector. This paper is a modest attempt to include this clue in a formal model of the simplest possible type that tries to unravel the relation between formal and informal sector as also the consequences of policies that leads to forced formalisation.
Experiences of a dedicated Heart and Maternal Health Service providing multidisciplinary care to pregnant women with cardiac disease in a tertiary centre in Namibia
Authors: Heemelaar Steffie , Agapitus Ndatiyaroo , van den Akker Thomas , Stekelenburg Jelle , Mackenzie Shonag , Hugo‐Hamman Christopher , Auala Tangeni
Published: August 2022

Objectives

First, to describe the implementation process, benefits and challenges of a multidisciplinary service for pregnant women with cardiac disease in Namibia. Second, to assess pregnancy outcomes in this population.

Methods

In a tertiary hospital in Namibia, a multidisciplinary service was implemented by staff of obstetric and cardiology departments and included preconception counselling, provision of antenatal care and reliable contraception. Management guidelines developed for high‐income settings were used, since no locally adapted guidelines were available. A cohort study was performed to assess cardiac, obstetric and fetal outcomes. Included were pregnant women with cardiac disease, referred to this service between 1 August 2016 and 31 July 2018.

Results

Important benefits of this service were the integrated approach, improved access to reliable contraception and insight into drivers of poor outcome. Several challenges with use of available guidelines were encountered, as contextual factors specific to lower‐income settings were not taken into consideration, such as higher rates of infection or barriers to access care. The cohort consisted of 65 women. Cardiac disease was diagnosed for the first time in 16 (24.6%) women, of whom 11 had pre‐existing cardiac disease. These women presented more often with heart failure than women with known heart disease (75.0% vs. 6.1%, RR 12.5, 95% CI 3.9–38.0). Five women died. Cardiac events occurred in twenty‐two women of whom eight developed thromboembolic events and two endocarditis. The majority had no indication for prophylaxis, based on available guidelines. Fetal events occurred in 36 pregnancies. After pregnancy more than half of women (35/65, 53.8%) were using long‐acting reversible contraception.

Conclusions

Despite several barriers, it was possible to implement a multidisciplinary service in a high‐burden setting. Cardiac and fetal event rates in this cohort were high. To improve outcomes the focus should be on availability of context‐specific guidelines and better detection of cardiac disease.
A circular RNA vector for targeted plant gene silencing based on an asymptomatic viroid
Authors: Marquez‐Molins Joan , Hernandez‐Azurdia Andrea Gabriela , Urrutia‐Perez María , Pallas Vicente , Gomez Gustavo
Published: August 2022

Gene silencing for functional studies in plants has been largely facilitated by manipulating viral genomes with inserts from host genes to trigger virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) against the corresponding mRNAs. However, viral genomes encode multiple proteins and can disrupt plant homeostasis by interfering with endogenous cell mechanisms. To try to circumvent this functional limitation, we have developed a silencing method based on the minimal autonomously‐infectious nucleic acids currently known: viroids, which lack proven coding capability. The genome of Eggplant latent viroid, an asymptomatic viroid, was manipulated with insertions ranging between 21 and 42 nucleotides. Our results show that, although larger insertions might be tolerated, the maintenance of the secondary structure appears to be critical for viroid genome stability. Remarkably, these modified ELVd molecules are able to induce systemic infection promoting the silencing of target genes in eggplant. Inspired by the design of artificial microRNAs, we have developed a simple and standardized procedure to generate stable insertions into the ELVd genome capable of silencing a specific target gene. Analogously to VIGS, we have termed our approach viroid‐induced gene silencing, and demonstrate that it is a promising tool for dissecting gene functions in eggplant.
Barley Ror1 encodes a class XI myosin required for mlo‐based broad‐spectrum resistance to the fungal powdery mildew pathogen
Authors: Acevedo‐Garcia Johanna , Walden Kim , Leissing Franz , Baumgarten Kira , Drwiega Katarzyna , Kwaaitaal Mark , Reinstädler Anja , Freh Matthias , Dong Xue , James Geo Velikkakam , Baus Lisa C. , Mascher Martin , Stein Nils , Schneeberger Korbinian , Brocke‐Ahmadinejad Nahal , Kollmar Martin , Schulze‐Lefert Paul , Panstruga Ralph
Published: August 2022

Loss‐of‐function alleles of plant MLO genes confer broad‐spectrum resistance to powdery mildews in many eudicot and monocot species. Although barley (Hordeum vulgare) mlo mutants have been used in agriculture for more than 40 years, understanding of the molecular principles underlying this type of disease resistance remains fragmentary. Forward genetic screens in barley have revealed mutations in two Required for mlo resistance (Ror) genes that partially impair immunity conferred by mlo mutants. While Ror2 encodes a soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor‐attached protein receptor (SNARE), the identity of Ror1, located at the pericentromeric region of barley chromosome 1H, remained elusive. We report the identification of Ror1 based on combined barley genomic sequence information and transcriptomic data from ror1 mutant plants. Ror1 encodes the barley class XI myosin Myo11A (HORVU.MOREX.r3.1HG0046420). Single amino acid substitutions of this myosin, deduced from non‐functional ror1 mutant alleles, map to the nucleotide‐binding region and the interface between the relay‐helix and the converter domain of the motor protein. Ror1 myosin accumulates transiently in the course of powdery mildew infection. Functional fluorophore‐labeled Ror1 variants associate with mobile intracellular compartments that partially colocalize with peroxisomes. Single‐cell expression of the Ror1 tail region causes a dominant‐negative effect that phenocopies ror1 loss‐of‐function mutants. We define a myosin motor for the establishment of mlo‐mediated resistance, suggesting that motor protein‐driven intracellular transport processes are critical for extracellular immunity, possibly through the targeted transfer of antifungal and/or cell wall cargoes to pathogen contact sites.