bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A randomized, controlled trial of prulifloxacin as conversion therapy after intravenous carbapenem in the treatment of acute pyelonephritis caused by third generation cephalosporin resistant pathogens: A pilot study
Authors: So‐Ngern Apichot , Jirajariyavej Supunnee , Thuncharoon Huttaya , Khunthupat Nuttha , Chantarojanasiri Teerachai , Montakantikul Preecha
Published: October 2023

The efficacy of converting to oral fluoroquinolones after initial intravenous antibiotics for the treatment of acute pyelonephritis (APN) caused by the third‐generation cephalosporin resistant Enterobacteriaceae (3‐GCrEC) needs to be investigated. The objective was to compare the clinical and bacteriological outcome of oral prulifloxacin with intravenous ertapenem for the treatment of APN caused by 3‐GCrEC. A pilot, randomized controlled trial of patients with APN caused by 3‐GCrEC was conducted at two hospitals from August 2015 to December 2020. Any intravenous antimicrobial drug was initially permitted for empirical therapy. On day 4, adult patients (aged >18 years) with either non‐bacteremic or bacteremic APN were eligible for the study if their infection was caused by 3‐GCrEC susceptible to the study drugs. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either oral prulifloxacin or intravenous ertapenem. The total duration of antimicrobial therapy was 14 days. Of the 21 enrolled patients, 11 were treated with prulifloxacin, and 10 were treated with ertapenem. At the test of cure visit, there was no statistically significant difference between the patients with overall clinical success who were treated with prulifloxacin (90.9%) and those treated with ertapenem (100%, p = 0.999). In addition, there was no statistically significant difference in microbiological eradication between the prulifloxacin and ertapenem groups (100% vs. 100%, p = 0.999). The converting to oral prulifloxacin after intravenous antibiotics therapy appears to be an alternative option for treatment of APN caused by 3‐GCrEC. A further large randomized controlled trial should be investigated.
Genomic variation in neurons
Authors: Zolzaya Sunjidmaa , Narumoto Ayano , Katsuyama Yu
Published: October 2023

Neurons born during the fetal period have extreme longevity and survive until the death of the individual because the human brain has highly limited tissue regeneration. The brain is comprised of an enormous variety of neurons each exhibiting different morphological and physiological characteristics and recent studies have further reported variations in their genome including chromosomal abnormalities, copy number variations, and single nucleotide mutations. During the early stages of brain development, the increasing number of neurons generated at high speeds has been proposed to lead to chromosomal instability. Additionally, mutations in the neuronal genome can occur in the mature brain. This observed genomic mosaicism in the brain can be produced by multiple endogenous and environmental factors and careful analyses of these observed variations in the neuronal genome remain central for our understanding of the genetic basis of neurological disorders.
Private ownership and management control decisions in infrastructure from the perspective of Transaction Cost Theory: Evidence from emerging economies
Authors: Baker Nicole B. , Haddad Christian
Published: October 2023

From the perspective of Transaction Cost Theory, this paper proposes a conceptual model to assess ownership and management control decisions of private partners in public‐private partnerships for infrastructure with regard generic risk factors, namely asset specificity, demand risk, environmental risk, social risk, macroeconomic risk, and governance or behavioral risk. Using an ordinal logistic model, hypotheses are tested on data covering 2152 projects in 12 emerging countries for the period 2010–2019. Overall results indicate that the extent of private ownership and management control is negatively related to risks, the marginal effects of which are moderated by high‐quality public institutions.
GA‐based feature selection method for oversized data analysis in digital economy
Authors: Lv Yao , Liu Peng , Wang Juan , Zhang Yao , Slowik Adam , Lv Jianhui
Published: October 2023

With the promotion and development of oversized data technology, many data analysis platforms based on super large data storage and computing frameworks have emerged in the industry. While the platforms with oversized economic data analysis combined with machine learning models are still relatively lacking. And oversized data also brings a new problem, that is the security of economic development. It is an important and difficult task to analyse and detect risks from oversized economic data. Based on machine learning, data analysis, economic market and other multidisciplinary fields, this paper proposes a machine learning method, which is a genetic algorithm (GA) based feature selection method: FSGA. This method abstracts every possible feature selection result into an individual in GA, generates a population through genetic operation, and measures the merits of the individual through fitness. In addition, this paper has conducted multitudinous simulation experiments on the GA‐based FSGA method and the traditional LSTM data analysis method respectively. The accuracy rate and other indicators are obtained by comparing the training. The experimental results show that the GA‐based FSGA machine learning method has higher prediction accuracy when analysing oversized economic data. And it is practical to accelerate the development of digital economy.
Strategic coupling, cross‐scalar tension and local upgrading in the globalizing automotive industry in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Liu Yi , Yeung Godfrey , Zhang Yifan , Huang Kaixuan , Zhang Xiaolin , Liu Yingtiao
Published: October 2023

This paper examines how latecomer firms manage to achieve industrial upgrading through strategic coupling with global lead firms in automotive production networks. Drawing upon the example of the Guangzhou Automotive Corporation in southern China, this paper theorizes ‘cross‐scalar tension’ as a key factor to explain why the four cases of strategic coupling between lead firms, the same domestic firm and state ended in different results, from decoupling to a sustainable coupling with local upgrading. This paper contributes to the pertinent literature by demonstrating that cross‐scalar tension is inherent to the nature of global production networks, and unreconciled tension concerning different corporate strategies on technological transfer, localization and product development could lead to decoupling. Importantly, good coordination and matching on corporate strategies between lead and domestic firms could relieve cross‐scalar tensions, thus fostering local industrial upgrading and sustainable strategic coupling.
Effectiveness of intensive adherence counselling in achieving an undetectable viral load among people on antiretroviral therapy with low‐level viraemia in Uganda
Authors: Nanyeenya Nicholus , Nakanjako Damalie , Makumbi Fredrick , Nakigozi Gertrude , Nalugoda Fred , Kigozi Godfrey , Nasuuna Esther , Kibira Simon P. S. , Nabadda Susan , Kiyaga Charles , Huzaifah Mutyaba , Kiwanuka Noah
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Uganda was using a threshold of 1000 copies/mL to determine viral non‐suppression for antiretroviral therapy monitoring among people living with HIV, prior to this study. It was not clear whether people living with HIV with low‐level viraemia (LLV, ≥50 to <1000 copies/mL) would benefit from intensive adherence counselling (IAC). The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of IAC among people living with HIV, receiving antiretroviral therapy, and with LLV in Uganda, to guide key policy decisions in HIV care, including the review of the viral load (VL) testing algorithm.

Methods

This cluster‐randomized clinical trial comprised adults from eight HIV clinics who were living with HIV, receiving ART, and had recent VL results indicating LLV (tested from July 2022 to October 2022). Participants in the intervention arm clinics received three once‐monthly sessions of IAC, and those in the comparison non‐intervention arm clinics received the standard of care. At the end of the study, all participants were re‐tested for VL to determine the proportions of those who then had an undetectable VL (<50 copies/mL). We assessed the statistical association between cross‐tabulated variables using Fisher's exact test and then modified Poisson regression.

Results

A total of 136 participants were enrolled into the study at eight HIV clinics. All 68 participants in the intervention arm completed all IAC sessions. Only one participant in the non‐intervention arm was lost to follow‐up. The average follow‐up time was 3.7 months (standard deviation [SD] 0.2) and 3.5 months (SD 0.1) in the intervention and non‐intervention arms, respectively.

In total, 59 (43.7%) of 135 people living with HIV achieved an undetectable VL during the study follow‐up period. The effect of IAC on attaining an undetectable VL among people with LLV was nearly twice as high in the intervention arm (57.4%) than in the non‐intervention arm (29.9%): adjusted risk ratio 1.9 (95% confidence interval 1.0–3.5),p = 0.037.

Conclusion

IAC doubled the likelihood of an undetectable VL among people living with HIV with LLV. Therefore, IAC has been instituted as an intervention to manage people living with HIV with LLV in Uganda, and this should also be adopted in other Sub‐Saharan African countries with similar settings.

ClinicalTrials.Gov Identifier

NCT05514418.
INFORMATION ACQUISITION AND DIFFUSION IN MARKETS
Authors: Atayev Atabek , Janssen Maarten
Published: October 2023

Consumers acquire information through their own search efforts or through word‐of‐mouth communication within their social network. Information diffusion leads to free‐riding and less active search. Free‐riding consumers also create important positive externalities, however, as they are more likely to compare prices, imposing competitive pressure on firms. We show how market prices depend on network characteristics and search cost. For example, if search cost becomes small, price dispersion disappears, while prices converge to the monopoly level, with expected prices decreasing for small search cost. Prices are lower in societies with more connections, while price dispersion remains even in fully connected societies.
Quay partitioning problem
Authors: Wawrzyniak Jakub , Drozdowski Maciej , Sanlaville Éric , Pigné Yoann , Guinand Frederic
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we introduce the quay partitioning problem (QPP), that is, a problem of partitioning quay length into berths for minimum ship waiting time. Such a problem arises when designing the terminal layout. Two schemes of quay layout are considered: with at most one ship in a berth and with at most two ships in a berth. Ship arrival times, service times, lengths, and weights are given. We show that QPP isNP‐hard. The two versions of QPP are formulated as mixed integer linear programs (MIPs). Scalability of solving QPPs as MIPs is studied. We investigate, analytically and in computational experiments, features of the QPP solutions such as (i) changes in solution quality when one long berth length is used versus choosing various berth lengths flexibly, (ii) what lengths of berths are chosen when ship lengths mixture is changing, (iii) what is the impact of congestion on the chosen berth lengths, and (iv) how much is one quay layout scheme better than the other.
Suicide Risk Prediction: A New Approach*
Authors: Greist John H. , Gustafson David H. , Stauss Fred F. , Rowse Glen L. , Laughren Thomas P. , Chiles John A.
Published: October 2023

A computer program that collects suicide risk factors by computer interview from persons with thoughts of suicide and processes the data to provide risk predictions has been written and pilot tested. Patient acceptance of the interviewing technique was good; more than half of the patients interviewed preferred the computer to a doctor as an interviewer. Bayes Theorem is used to process the data collected against a subjective data base. In a retrospective study comparing risk predictions made by the computer with predictions by experienced clinicians, the computer was more accurate in predicting suicide attempters (p .01) and slightly less accurate in predicting nonattempters. The program is economical, can be used wherever a telephone and a computer terminal are available, and is readily and uniformly modified to include new data.
Observations on Long‐Term Group Therapy with Suicidal and Depressed Persons
Authors: Billings James H. , Rosen David H. , Asimos Chris , Motto Jerome A.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: A long‐term, open‐ended group for depressed and suicidal individuals who had made suicide attempts is described. Two hundred persons participated in the sample groups over a 46‐month period, with only 10 suicide attempts and 1 suicide occurring in this high risk group during the period of the study. Our observations corroborated some findings and differed with others reported of experiences with groups of individuals who have manifested suicidal behavior. The paper includes recommendations for starting groups of suicidal persons and emphasizes that this method of therapy appears to be an effective mode of suicide prevention.
Sexual Asphyxias
Authors: Coe John I.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT:Some asphyxial deaths in young white males, usually by hanging, are accidents occurring during aberrant sexual activity. The physical aspects and limited psychological knowledge of these cases that distinguish them from suicidal deaths are discussed.
An Assessment of the Utility of Suicide Prediction*
Authors: MacKinnon Douglas R. , Farberow Norman L.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT:Efforts to predict a future event assume varying levels of confidence depending on its base rate and the error rate of the prediction instrument. Most researchers working with suicide prediction instruments seem tacitly to assume they will be able to predict a future suicide most of the time. Applying basic decision theory on a neuropsychiatric hospital population indicates that researchers using a prediction schedule will be unlikely to predict a future suicide beyond a 20% level of efficiency. Contrary to the general clinical view, eliminating false negatives was shown to be more practical than eliminating false positives in increasing the efficiency of a predictive schedule.
Relation of Marital Separation and Divorce to Suicide: A Report*
Authors: Jacobson Gerald F. , Portuges Stephen H.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: This paper examines the relation of marital separation and divorce to suicide. The persons studied are applicants to the Benjamin Rush Center, the crisis clinic division of the Didi Hirsch Community Mental Health Center/Los Angeles Psychiatric Service. The sample consists of 238 subjects, of whom 39, or 16.4% were suicidal, and 23 had made one or more suicide attempts at some prior date. Those seriously discussing separation, but not actually separated, tended to be less frequently suicidal than the long‐term separated/divorced (.05 < p >. 10). The study further examined the relationship of important events and interspouse transactions to suicide potential. Significant associations were found in the relationship of suicide potential to verbal attack by spouse (p =. 03), vacillation in the last two weeks (p =. 02), and vacillation since the first serious discussion of divorce (p =. 02). Several other associations approached statistical significance. The authors believe that the findings in regard to vacillation and interspouse aggression are especially interesting and merit further study.
Psychological and social outcomes of befriending interventions for adults with intellectual disabilities: A systematic review
Authors: Brand Fiona , Scior Katrina , Loewenberger Alana
Published: October 2023

Background

Befriending is an intervention intended to provide companionship and support to socially isolated populations. This review aimed to understand the key characteristics and psychological and social outcomes of befriending interventions for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Methods

Systematic searches of electronic databases (PsycINFO, MedLine and Web of Science) identified 11 studies for inclusion. A narrative synthesis of the findings was completed, along with critical appraisal of study quality.

Results

Increased community participation, positive changes to social networks and mood were frequently reported outcomes for befriendees. Increased knowledge, new experiences and opportunities to ‘give back’ were most reported for befrienders.

Conclusions

The review highlighted that existing research in this field is limited in scope and methodologically diverse. Future research should focus upon the effectiveness and long‐term impact of befriending interventions, understanding the mechanisms of change, and eliciting the views of people with intellectual disabilities on their experiences.
Happy Little Vegemites™! An analysis of the contribution of yeast extract spreads and tomato‐based sauces to nutrient intake adequacy in Australia
Authors: Whatnall Megan , Clarke Erin D. , Bucher Tamara , Collins Clare E.
Published: October 2023

Background

Yeast extract spreads and tomato‐based sauces (i.e., ketchup) are consumed regularly by the Australian population. Therefore, there is a need to explore the contribution of these condiments to nutrient intakes among Australians.

Methods

The present study comprises a secondary analysis of data from the 2011–2012 Australian National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. Dietary intake data were undertaken for 12,153 Australians aged ≥ 2 years, using 24‐h recalls. Yeast extract spreads and tomato‐based sauces were categorised based on how they were defined in the Australian Food and Nutrient (AUSNUT) 2011–2013 database. Kruskal–Wallis H tests and the post‐hoc Dunn's test with Bonferroni correction were applied to test whether a significant difference existed in the percentage contribution of yeast extract spreads and tomato‐based sauces to intakes of select nutrients.

Results

In total, 19.6% (n = 2384) of the population sample consumed yeast extract spreads and/or tomato‐based sauces during the 24‐h recall. The percentage contribution of yeast extract spreads to daily intakes of sodium, potassium, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, magnesium, iron, zinc and iodine were significantly higher in line with a greater quantity of yeast extract spread consumed (p < 0.05). The percentage contribution of tomato‐based sauces to daily intakes of sodium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, folate, beta‐carotene, magnesium, iron, zinc and iodine was increased significantly with a greater quantity of tomato‐based sauces consumed (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Consumption of yeast extracts and tomato‐based sauces contribute to greater intake of key nutrients, such as B‐vitamins and beta‐carotene, and may assist in meeting key nutrient reference values. However, consumption of these sauces and condiments also resulted in greater intakes of sodium, contributing to population intakes exceeding recommendations. Reducing sodium content of frequently consumed condiments may potentially assist in lowering population intakes, at the same time as preserving intakes of other important nutrients.
PrP meets alpha‐synuclein: Molecular mechanisms and implications for disease
Authors: Vieira Tuane C. R. G. , Barros Caroline A. , Domingues Renato , Outeiro Tiago Fleming
Published: October 2023

The discovery of prions has challenged dogmas and has revolutionized our understanding of protein‐misfolding diseases. The concept of self‐propagation via protein conformational changes, originally discovered for the prion protein (PrP), also applies to other proteins that exhibit similar behavior, such as alpha‐synuclein (aSyn), a central player in Parkinson's disease and in other synucleinopathies. aSyn pathology appears to spread from one cell to another during disease progression, and involves the misfolding and aggregation of aSyn. How the transfer of aSyn between cells occurs is still being studied, but one important hypothesis involves receptor‐mediated transport. Interestingly, recent studies indicate that the cellular prion protein (PrPC) may play a crucial role in this process. PrPC has been shown to act as a receptor/sensor for protein aggregates in different neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the interaction between aSyn and PrPC and discuss its role in synucleinopathies. We examine the properties of PrP and aSyn, including their structure, function, and aggregation. Additionally, we discuss the current understanding of PrPC's role as a receptor/sensor for aSyn aggregates and identify remaining unanswered questions in this area of research. Ultimately, we posit that exploring the interaction between aSyn and PrPC may offer potential treatment options for synucleinopathies.

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An evolutionarily distinct ringed seal in the Ilulissat Icefjord
Authors: Rosing‐Asvid Aqqalu , Löytynoja Ari , Momigliano Paolo , Hansen Rikke Guldborg , Scharff‐Olsen Camilla Hjorth , Valtonen Mia , Kammonen Juhana , Dietz Rune , Rigét Frank Farsø , Ferguson Steve H. , Lydersen Christian , Kovacs Kit M. , Holland David M. , Jernvall Jukka , Auvinen Petri , Tange Olsen Morten
Published: October 2023

The Earth's polar regions are low rates of inter‐ and intraspecific diversification. An extreme mammalian example is the Arctic ringed seal (Pusa hispida hispida), which is assumed to be panmictic across its circumpolar Arctic range. Yet, local Inuit communities in Greenland and Canada recognize several regional variants; a finding supported by scientific studies of body size variation. It is however unclear whether this phenotypic variation reflects plasticity, morphs or distinct ecotypes. Here, we combine genomic, biologging and survey data, to document the existence of a unique ringed seal ecotype in the Ilulissat Icefjord (locally ‘Kangia’), Greenland; a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is home to the most productive marine‐terminating glacier in the Arctic. Genomic analyses reveal a divergence of Kangia ringed seals from other Arctic ringed seals about 240 kya, followed by secondary contact since the Last Glacial Maximum. Despite ongoing gene flow, multiple genomic regions appear under strong selection in Kangia ringed seals, including candidate genes associated with pelage coloration, growth and osmoregulation, potentially explaining the Kangia seal's phenotypic and behavioural uniqueness. The description of ‘hidden’ diversity and adaptations in yet another Arctic species merits a reassessment of the evolutionary processes that have shaped Arctic diversity and the traditional view of this region as an evolutionary freezer. Our study highlights the value of indigenous knowledge in guiding science and calls for efforts to identify distinct populations or ecotypes to understand how these might respond differently to environmental change.
The effects of acute exercise and a nap on heart rate variability and memory in young sedentary adults
Authors: Mograss Melodee , Frimpong Emmanuel , Vilcourt Franck , Chouchou Florian , Zvionow Tehila , Dang‐Vu Thien Thanh
Published: October 2023

Recent evidence suggests that the autonomic nervous system can contribute to memory consolidation during sleep. Whether fluctuations in cardiac autonomic activity during sleep following physical exercise contribute to the process of memory consolidation has not been studied. We assessed the effects of a non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) nap following acute exercise on cardiac autonomic regulation assessed with heart rate variability (HRV) to examine if HRV influences memory processes. Fifty‐six (59% female) healthy young adults (23.14 ± 3.74 years) were randomly allocated to either the exercise plus nap (ExNap, n = 27) or nap alone (NoExNap, n = 29) groups. The ExNap group performed a 40‐minute moderate‐intensity cycling, while the NoExNap group was sedentary prior to learning 45 neutral pictures for a later test. Subsequently, participants underwent a 60‐minute NREM nap while measuring EKG, followed by a visual recognition test. Our results indicated that heart rate did not significantly differ between the groups (p = .243), whereas vagally mediated HRV indices were lower in the ExNap group compared to the NoExNap group (p < .05). There were no significant differences in sleep variables between the groups (p > .05). Recognition accuracy was significantly higher in the ExNap group than in the NoExNap group (p = .027). In addition, the recognition accuracy of the ExNap group was negatively associated with vagally mediated HRV (p < .05). Pre‐nap acute exercise appears to attenuate parasympathetic activity and to alter the relationship between memory and cardiac autonomic activity.
Local lobbying in single‐party authoritarian systems: Do institutions matter?
Authors: Wang Hua , Duckett Jane
Published: October 2023

Lobbying, and its role in the policy process, has been extensively studied in democratic states, but much less is known about similar practices in authoritarian political systems. Although a few studies have identified lobbying in China, most have focused on big businesses and national policy making, and some have argued that it is unaffected by differences in political institutions. Our paper challenges this portrayal of business lobbying in autocracies. Through a study of the lobbying activities of business associations based on documentary research and fieldwork in the northern Chinese city of Tianjin between 2011 and 2013, we show that although business associations have similar lobbying motivations to their counterparts in democracies, their specific practices are often shaped by authoritarian political institutions. While they are similar in seeking to build informal relationships with public officials, provide expertise to shape policies, and raise their profile through public relations activities and media engagement, they differ in focusing their relationship‐building efforts on helping officials with routine work, helping Communist Party organizations establish cells in businesses, and brokering between businesses and government. Rather than donating to political campaigns like their counterparts in democracies, they become legislators themselves, hire retired officials, and seek positions on advisory bodies. Rigged elections, an unreliable legal system, and restrictions on media and freedom of movement are key authoritarian institutions that shape these distinctive lobbying practices.
Developing digital interventions for a post‐Covid world: A smartphone‐based approach‐avoidance training to reduce alcohol craving
Authors: Peerenboom Nele , Guzman Natalie V. , Kvamme Timo , Ritou Valentin , Casero Violeta , Voon Valerie
Published: October 2023

Harmful alcohol use is a major public health issue. In‐person treatment has been hindered by the restrictions necessary during the Covid‐19 pandemic. This study examined the effects of an at‐home smartphone‐based cognitive bias modification training in heavy drinkers. Experiment 1 tested the effect of a short 20–30‐min smartphone‐based approach‐avoidance training (AAT) on image‐induced craving at a 1‐day follow‐up. Sixty‐two participants consuming 14+ units of alcohol/week were allocated to either the training or waitlist group. Experiment 2 used an updated version of the same short AAT intervention with a sample of n = 107 participants who consumed 20+ units of alcohol/week. Training effects at 1‐week follow‐up were compared to an active control group. Experiment 1 showed a significant reduction in image‐induced craving for the training group at 1‐day follow‐up. Experiment 2 found that AUDIT weekly scores were significantly reduced at 1‐week follow‐up for the training group, all the while craving for soft drinks remained unchanged. Experiment 1 served as a first proof of concept for the efficacy of the new smartphone‐based AAT training, and experiment 2 suggested that training effects on problem alcohol use hold at 1‐week follow‐up.
The transmembrane protein LbRSG from the recretohalophyte Limonium bicolor enhances salt gland development and salt tolerance
Authors: Zhou Yingli , Zhang Haonan , Ren Yanpeng , Wang Xi , Wang Baoshan , Yuan Fang
Published: October 2023

Salt glands are the unique epidermal structures present in recretohalophytes, plants that actively excrete excess Na+ by salt secretory structures to avoid salt damage. Here, we describe a transmembrane protein that localizes to the plasma membrane of the recretohalophyte Limonium bicolor. As virus‐induced gene silencing of the corresponding gene LbRSG in L. bicolor decreased the number of salt glands, we named the gene Reduced Salt Gland. We detected LbRSG transcripts in salt glands by in situ hybridization and transient transformation. Overexpression and silencing of LbRSG in L. bicolor pointed to a positive role in salt gland development and salt secretion by interacting with Lb3G16832. Heterologous LbRSG expression in Arabidopsis enhanced salt tolerance during germination and the seedling stage by alleviating NaCl‐induced ion stress and osmotic stress after replacing or deleting the (highly) negatively charged region of extramembranous loop. After screened by immunoprecipitation‐mass spectrometry and verified using yeast two‐hybrid, PGK1 and BGLU18 were proposed to interact with LbRSG to strengthen salt tolerance. Therefore, we identified (highly) negatively charged regions in the extramembrane loop that may play an essential role in salt tolerance, offering hints about LbRSG function and its potential to confer salt resistance.
Efficacy of Acute Oral Supplementation of Aquilaria malaccensis Leaves Aqueous Extract on Adult Female Sprague Dawley Rat Growth Performance
Authors: Mohamad Nasir Nurul Amalina , Kari Asmad , Haron Mohd Nizam , Komilus Connie Fay
Published: October 2023

Aquilaria malaccensis belongs to the Thymelaceae family and is frequently encountered in select states of Peninsular Malaysia, notably Terengganu, Kelantan, Pahang, and Johor. Its favorable pharmacological and nutritional attributes have attracted the attention of experts in the pharmaceutical and food industries. They are currently investigating its potential as an organic substitute herb for the formulation of diverse medicinal commodities. In spite of its growing utilization as a supplementary component, it is crucial to acknowledge that improper or excessive consumption of Aquilaria malaccensis leaf extract might pose a risk of oral toxicity. To evaluate this aspect, an acute study was carried out to investigate both the immediate and delayed toxic repercussions of aqueous extract from Aquilaria malaccensis leaves on rats during a 14-day span.The study involved twenty-four female Sprague Dawley rats, divided into four groups: Control (C); 1 ml of distilled water, Treatment 1 (T1); 1 g of Aquilaria malaccensis per kg of body weight, Treatment 2 (T2); 2 g per kg of body weight, and Treatment 3 (T3); 3 g per kg of body weight. The data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods; one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for parametric data and the Chi-Square test for non-parametric data.The results indicated that both T2 and T3 led to a significant increase in the mean weight of the organ  (i.e.,ovary) compared to the control group. However, no significant differences were observed among the treatment groups with regard to weekly food intake (WFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and body weight gain (BWG) throughout the 14-day acute oral toxicity assessment. In conclusion, this preliminary study involving female rats suggests that doses of Aquilaria malaccensis up to 3 g/kg of body weight do not result in immediate (within 3-4 hours) or delayed toxic effects over a 14-day period, as evidenced by behavioral and physical, and growth parameter assessments (weekly food intake (WFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and body weight gain (BWG). The study indicates that exposing the animals to Aquilaria malaccensis aqueous extract at doses of 1 g, 2 g, and 3 g/kg of body weight does not adversely affect their overall condition. No instances of mortality or severe clinical effects were observed in any of the female rats during this acute oral toxicity study.
The First Zagreb Index of the Zero Divisor Graph for the Ring of Integers Modulo Power of Primes
Authors: Semil @ Ismail Ghazali , Sarmin Nor Haniza , Alimon Nur Idayu , Maulana Fariz
Published: October 2023

Let  be a simple graph with the set of vertices and edges. The first Zagreb index of a graph is defined as the sum of the degree of each vertex to the power of two. Meanwhile, the zero divisor graph of a ring , denoted by , is defined as a graph with its vertex set  contains the nonzero zero divisors in which two distinct vertices  and  are adjacent if . In this paper, the general formula of the first Zagreb index of the zero divisor graph for the commutative ring of integers modulo ,  where a prime number  and a positive integer  is determined. A few examples are given to illustrate the main results.
Improved Performance of Optical Fiber Core: Role of Plasmonic Metals Activation
Authors: John Hussein Taqi , Kadhim Oday Jawad , Zayer Imad Kamil , Aziz M S , Salim A A
Published: October 2023

Optical fiber core with customized characteristics became demanding for diverse high performance applications. Based on this idea, the optical fiber core was activated using various plasmonic metals (beryllium, chromium, and nickel) to improve its refractive index, sensitivity and bandwidth. The influence of various wavelengths and core radii on three modes (LP01, LP11 and LP21) propagation was determined using finite element analysis (FEM). The COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS software was used for the computation. The fiber core radii of the plasmonic metal activated and wavelengths were varied to control the forward and backward energy propagation as well as the modal dispersion relation. Quantities like effective refractive index, attenuation, propagation constant and diffusion coefficient for the three modes as a function of wavelengths and fiber core radii were calculated, which showed maximum values at shorter wavelengths. Irrespective of the type of metal activation in the fiber core, the refractive index of LP01 mode for the core of radius 200 nm was more significantly affected compared to others. Regardless of different metals inclusion, the dispersion relation (refractive index versus frequency) for all modes was strongly positive, showing increasing values for radius in the order of 200, 400, 600 nm. Plasmonic metals Cr and Ni displayed best effect, while Be required high values of V to get LP01 in a narrow range and other modes appeared in a larger range than V. Present results may be useful for the development of high performance optical fiber core.
Transient Performance Simulation of Gas Turbine Engine Based on Through-Flow Method and Experimental Verification
Authors: Yuchen Dai , Manxiang Song , Donghai Jin , Xingmin Gui , Xiaoheng Liu
Published: October 2023

Current research on engine transient performance primarily focuses on the variation of key aerothermodynamic parameters in specific sections, neglecting the comprehensive understanding of the engine's inner flow field during transient operations. To address this gap, this paper proposes a two-dimensional transient simulation method that effectively captures the evolution of the flow field in the meridional plane. The approach involves deriving circumferential averaging equations in a rotating coordinate system with variable angular velocity, considering angular acceleration source terms. The engine components, including the compressor, combustion chamber, turbine, and rotating shaft, are individually modeled. The newly derived governing equations are solved using a dual-time-step approach, where an inner-iteration ensures mass flow conservation, and an outer-iteration updates the rotational speed. Using a real turbojet engine as a case study, transient examinations comprising acceleration and deceleration are performed. A comparative analysis of experimental and simulation results is conducted, revealing an average error of 0.9% in shaft speed, 7.8% in engine thrust, 1.7% in engine exhaust temperature, and 5.1% in compressor outlet pressure. Additionally, the study analyzes and compares the internal flow fields during the transient process, contributing to a deeper understanding of the engine's dynamic behavior. The research effort establishes a practical methodology and technology for conducting comprehensive two-dimensional engine transient cycle analyses within reasonable computational resources and timeframes.
Insights Into the Flow Field and Performance of a Boundary Layer Pump
Authors: Rajendran David John , Palaveev Kyril , Anselmi Eduardo , Santhanakrishnan Mani , Pachidis Vassilios
Published: October 2023

A flow field analysis of a realistic, integrated, multidisk boundary layer pump as is necessary for investigating the reasons for typically quoted low efficiencies in such pumps is described. The study focuses on the three-dimensional RANS solutions of a water boundary layer pump model created to replicate a design by Morris, 1973, which consists of 170 disks and a volute channel. A baseline study is performed to investigate the rotor-only performance after which a volute alone is separately simulated to identify the performance and losses in each as separate systems. Thereafter, an integrated model is characterized across mass flow rates and rotational speeds. The flow fields of all three models are discussed and the results of the integrated model are compared to the experimental data. The results from the model with the rotor only confirm the typically made claim that the efficiency of the rotor in a boundary layer pump possesses relatively high values which in this case is ∼87% at the design point, reinforcing results from previous studies that the rotor assembly is not the cause of inefficiency. The volute on its own indicated a hydraulic efficiency of around 97%. However, the integrated model yielded a rotor efficiency of around 74\% and an overall pump efficiency of 51% at the design point, clearly outlining the fact that the effect of the volute integrated with the rotor is the reason for both the rotor and pump efficiency degradation. The reason for this drop in efficiency is discussed in detail by highlighting the change in the flow topologies. The insights into the flow field and the identification of the reason for inefficiencies using a separated component analysis approach provide directions for avenues in which design improvements would need to be attempted.
The influence of source-filter interaction on the voice source in a three-dimensional computational model of voice production
Authors: Zhang Zhaoyan
Published: October 2023

The goal of this computational study is to quantify global effects of vocal tract constriction at various locations (false vocal folds, aryepiglottic folds, pharynx, oral cavity, and lips) on the voice source across a large range of vocal fold conditions. The results showed that while inclusion of a uniform vocal tract had notable effects on the voice source, further constricting the vocal tract only had small effects except for conditions of extreme constriction, at which constrictions at any location along the vocal tract decreased the mean and peak-to-peak amplitude of the glottal flow waveform. Although narrowing in the epilarynx increased the normalized maximum flow declination rate, vocal tract constriction in general slightly reduced the source strength and high-frequency harmonic production at the glottis, except for a limited set of vocal fold conditions (e.g., soft, long vocal folds subject to relatively high pressure). This suggests that simultaneous laryngeal and vocal tract adjustments are required to maximize source-filter interaction. While vocal tract adjustments are often assumed to improve voice production, our results indicate that such improvements are mainly due to changes in vocal tract acoustic response rather than improved voice production at the glottis.
Load–Velocity Profile and Active Drag in Young Female Swimmers: An Age-Group Comparison
Authors: Wettengl Christina , Karlsson Rebecca , Olstad Bjørn H. , Gonjo Tomohiro
Published: October 2023

Purpose: The present study aimed to establish differences in load–velocity profiling, active drag (AD), and drag coefficient (Cd) between 3 age groups of female swimmers. Methods: Thirty-three swimmers (11, 13, or 16 y old) were recruited. The individual load–velocity profile was determined for the 4 competitive swimming strokes. The maximal velocity (V0), maximal load (L0), L0 normalized to the body mass, AD, and Cd were compared between the groups. A 2-way analysis of variance and correlation analysis were conducted. Results: Compared with their younger counterparts, 16-year-old swimmers generally had larger V0, L0, and AD, which was particularly evident when comparing them with 11-year-old swimmers (P ≤ .052). The exception was breaststroke, where no differences were observed in L0 and AD and Cd was smaller in the 16-year-old group than the 11-year-old group (P = .03). There was a negative correlation between Cd and V0 for all groups in backstroke (P ≤ .038) and for the 11-year-old group and 13-year-old group in breaststroke (P ≤ .022) and front crawl (P ≤ .010). For the 16-year-old group, large correlations with V0 were observed for L0, L0 normalized to the body mass, and AD (P ≤ .010) in breaststroke and for L0 and AD with V0 in front crawl (P ≤ .042). In butterfly, large negative correlations with V0 were observed in the 13-year-old group for all parameters (P ≤ .027). Conclusions: Greater propulsive force is likely the factor that differentiates the oldest age group from the younger groups, except for breaststroke, where a lower Cd (implying a better technique) is evident in the oldest group.
Idiosyncratic and dose-dependent epistasis drives variation in tomato fruit size
Authors: Aguirre Lyndsey , Hendelman Anat , Hutton Samuel F. , McCandlish David M. , Lippman Zachary B.
Published: October 2023

Epistasis between genes is traditionally studied with mutations that eliminate protein activity, but most natural genetic variation is in cis-regulatory DNA and influences gene expression and function quantitatively. In this study, we used natural and engineered cis-regulatory alleles in a plant stem-cell circuit to systematically evaluate epistatic relationships controlling tomato fruit size. Combining a promoter allelic series with two other loci, we collected over 30,000 phenotypic data points from 46 genotypes to quantify how allele strength transforms epistasis. We revealed a saturating dose-dependent relationship but also allele-specific idiosyncratic interactions, including between alleles driving a step change in fruit size during domestication. Our approach and findings expose an underexplored dimension of epistasis, in which cis-regulatory allelic diversity within gene regulatory networks elicits nonlinear, unpredictable interactions that shape phenotypes.
Fantastical phenomena, illustrated
The Warped Side of Our Universe
Kip Thorne and Lia Halloran
Liveright, 2023. 240 pp.
Authors: Kaiser David
Published: October 2023

An astrophysicist and an artist craft evocative portraits of warping spacetime
Probe of Alzheimer’s studies finds ‘egregious misconduct’
Authors: Piller Charles
Published: October 2023

Co-developer of biotech’s drug couldn’t supply original data
Structural basis for broad neutralization of human antibody against Omicron sublineages and evasion by XBB variant
Authors: Sun Hui , Wang Yizhen , Chen Xiuting , Jiang Yanan , Wang Siling , Huang Yang , Liu Liqin , Li Yu , Lan Miaolin , Guo Huilin , Yuan Quan , Zhang Yali , Li Tingting , Yu Hai , Gu Ying , Zhang Jun , Li Shaowei , Zheng Zizheng , Zheng Qingbing , Xia Ningshao
Published: October 2023

The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants, particularly the newly circulating Omicron XBB subvariants, has led to a significant reduction in the neutralizing potency and breadth of antibodies. In this study, we report a SARS-CoV-2 human neutralizing antibody, 1G11, which potently and broadly neutralizes diverse variants, including Omicron subvariants BA.4/5 and BF.7, but is evaded by the recently emerged BQ.1.1 and XBBs. Cryo-electron microscopy structure analysis of the 1G11 in complex with the BA.4/5 spike trimer reveals that 1G11, a Class 3 nAb, recognizes an epitope similar to those of S309 and LY-CoV1404. Structurally, the mutations K444T and V445P in BQ.1.1 and XBB subvariants are found to disrupt the interface between 1G11 and the spike protein, resulting in antibody evasion. 1G11 is further demonstrated to mediate neutralization through multiple mechanisms, including receptor binding blockage, interspike cross-linking, Fc-mediated ADCC and ADCP. Collectively, these findings provide insights into a better understanding of neutralizing antibody evasion and highlight the potential for broad neutralization by structure-based modification of available antibodies.

IMPORTANCE

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has been characterized by the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants including the highly transmissible Omicron XBB sublineages, which have shown significant resistance to neutralizing antibodies (nAbs). This resistance has led to decreased vaccine effectiveness and therefore result in breakthrough infections and reinfections, which continuously threaten public health. To date, almost all available therapeutic nAbs, including those authorized under Emergency Use Authorization nAbs that were previously clinically useful against early strains, have recently been found to be ineffective against newly emerging variants. In this study, we provide a comprehensive structural basis about how the Class 3 nAbs, including 1G11 in this study and noted LY-CoV1404, are evaded by the newly emerged SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Integration of molecular and computational approaches paints a holistic portrait of obscure metabolisms
Authors: Reyes-Umana Victor , Ewens Sophia D. , Meier David A. O. , Coates John D.
Published: October 2023

Microorganisms are essential drivers of earth’s geochemical cycles. However, the significance of elemental redox cycling mediated by microorganisms is often underestimated beyond the most well-studied nutrient cycles. Phosphite, (per)chlorate, and iodate are each considered esoteric substrates metabolized by microorganisms. However, recent investigations have indicated that these metabolisms are widespread and ubiquitous, affirming a need to continue studying the underlying microbiology to understand their biogeochemical effects and their interface with each other and our biosphere. This review focuses on combining canonical techniques of culturing microorganisms with modern omic approaches to further our understanding of obscure metabolic pathways and elucidate their importance in global biogeochemical cycles. Using these approaches, marker genes of interest have already been identified for phosphite, (per)chlorate, and iodate using traditional microbial physiology and genetics. Subsequently, their presence was queried to reveal the distribution of metabolic pathways in the environment using publicly available databases. In conjunction with each other, computational and experimental techniques provide a more comprehensive understanding of the location of these microorganisms, their underlying biochemistry and genetics, and how they tie into our planet’s geochemical cycles.