bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive characterisation of taste and aroma profiles of Daokou red‐cooked chicken by GC‐IMS and GC–MS combined with chemometrics
Authors: Sun Xiangxiang , Yu Yumei , Saleh Ahmed S. M. , Yang Xinyu , Ma Jiale , Zhang Dequan , Li Wenhao , Wang Zhenyu
Published: May 2023

Taste and aroma profiles of Daokou red‐cooked chickens (DRCs) were analysed using different techniques and methods. Multivariate data analysis revealed that e‐nose and e‐tongue could successfully discriminate DRCs of various sources based on their taste and aroma profiles. Flavour nucleotide content and umami concentration of breasts were higher than those of thighs. Additionally, a fingerprint was established to analyse the distribution of different volatile compounds using gas chromatography‐ion mobility spectrometry. A total number of 54 volatile components was identified in the DRCs, mostly aldehydes, esters, ketones, terpenes and alcohols. Odour activity value demonstrated that nine volatile components, including 1‐octen‐3‐ol, 2‐pentylfuran, eucalyptol, nonanal, estragole, anisaldehyde, anethole, eugenol and hexanal, could be considered as the characteristic flavour compounds of DRCs. Furthermore, partial least squares‐discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) analysis showed that sweet tastes, anethole, 5′‐inosine monophosphate, eugenol, eucalyptol, umami tastes, sour tastes, bitter tastes, 2,3‐butanedione, hexanal, hypoxanthine, inosine and d‐limonene were significant factors that caused the differences among DRCs of different sources. Sensory analysis revealed variations in consumer preferences of DRCs from different suppliers. Obtained results will help in understanding of how taste and flavour compounds affect quality and preferences of DRCs, which will help manufacturers improve processing methods and promote consumption of DRCs.
Analytical validation of white blood cell differential and platelet assessment on the Sysmex DI‐60 digital morphology analyzer
Authors: Lapić Ivana , Miloš Marija , Dorotić Marija , Drenški Valentina , Coen Herak Désirée , Rogić Dunja
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Digital morphology analyzers are increasingly replacing light microscopy in laboratory hematology practice. This study aimed to perform the analytical validation of the white blood cell (WBC) differential and of reliability of platelet assessment on Sysmex DI‐60 (Kobe, Japan).

Methods

Validation included determination of within‐run and between‐run precision for WBC differential according to the CLSI EP15‐A3 protocol, accuracy and method comparison with light microscopy and with the automated WBC differential from the Sysmex XN‐10 hematology analyzer, reliability of platelet clump detection and platelet count estimation.

Results

Standard deviations of both pre‐ and post‐classification mostly satisfied manufacturer's criteria for imprecision. Accuracy assessment revealed that only eosinophil count (1.4%) in one peripheral blood smear (PBS) remained outside the declared range (2–10%) after reclassification. Method comparison between DI‐60 and light microscopy yielded Spearman's correlation coefficients from 0.37 (basophils) to 0.94 (neutrophils and lymphocytes), minor proportional difference for bands, constant difference for monocytes, both constant and proportional difference for lymphocytes and statistically significant biases for bands, lymphocytes, monocytes and basophils. Diagnostic sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of DI‐60 in detecting immature/pathological cells were 88.7% (95%CI:81.1–94.0) and 83.0% (95%CI:78.7–86.7), respectively, with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.86 (95%CI:0.82–0.89). Agreement in detection of platelet clumps was 94.8% (kappa coefficient = 0.67, 95%CI:0.53–0.80). Se and Sp of DI‐60 to detect platelet clumps were 65.7% (95%CI: 47.8–80.9) and 96.9% (95%CI: 93.9–98.6), respectively, while AUC was 0.81 (95%CI: 0.76–0.86).

Conclusion

DI‐60 provides reliable WBC differential and platelet assessment. In doubtful cases, the use of light microscopy is still mandatory.
Applied machine learning in hematopathology
Authors: Dehkharghanian Taher , Mu Youqing , Tizhoosh Hamid R. , Campbell Clinton J. V.
Published: May 2023

An increasing number of machine learning applications are being developed and applied to digital pathology, including hematopathology. The goal of these modern computerized tools is often to support diagnostic workflows by extracting and summarizing information from multiple data sources, including digital images of human tissue. Hematopathology is inherently multimodal and can serve as an ideal case study for machine learning applications. However, hematopathology also poses unique challenges compared to other pathology subspecialities when applying machine learning approaches. By modeling the pathologist workflow and thinking process, machine learning algorithms may be designed to address practical and tangible problems in hematopathology. In this article, we discuss the current trends in machine learning in hematopathology. We review currently available machine learning enabled medical devices supporting hematopathology workflows. We then explore current machine learning research trends of the field with a focus on bone marrow cytology and histopathology, and how adoption of new machine learning tools may be enabled through the transition to digital pathology.
Surgical treatment of penile foreign body granuloma: Penile shaft reconstruction with single‐ versus two‐stage scrotal flap techniques
Authors: Lumbiganon Supanut , Pachirat Kachit , Sirithanaphol Wichien , Rompsaithong Ukrit , Kiatsopit Pakorn , Nuwatkrisin Kanrapee
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To report outcomes of surgical treatment in patients with penile foreign body granuloma and compare surgical outcomes between single‐ and two‐stage scrotal flap reconstructions.

Methods

Medical records of patients with penile foreign body granuloma who underwent surgical treatment were reviewed. Patients with single‐ and two‐stage scrotal flap reconstructions were compared.

Results

Forty‐two patients underwent surgical treatment from January 1, 2018 to October 31, 2022. Twenty‐three patients underwent single‐stage reconstruction with bilateral scrotal flap while 12 patients underwent two‐stage repair with 19 operations. Five patients underwent circumcision; one had excision with primary closure. Another patient underwent reconstruction by penile skin preservation technique. There was no statistically significant differences between single‐ and two‐stage groups in wound infection (8.69% vs. 0%, RR 2.71, 95%CI; 0.14–52.29), wound dehiscence (21.74% vs. 8.33%, RR 2.61, 95%CI 0.34–19.87), reoperation rate (26.08% vs. 8.33%, RR 3.13, 95%CI; 0.42–23.10). Postoperative fever was significantly higher in single‐stage group (56.52 vs. 8.33%, RR 6.78, 95%CI; 1.01–43.83). Total length of hospital stay was shorter in single‐stage group (7.43 ± 3.19 days vs. 10.86 ± 1.57 days, MD −3.42, 95%CI; −5.28 to −1.57). Incidence of patients without Clavien–Dindo surgical complications was significantly lower in single‐stage group (43.48% vs. 83.33%, RR 0.53, 95%CI; 0.31–0.89).

Conclusions

Both single‐ and two‐stage techniques may be considered for penile foreign body granuloma reconstruction. Although the hospital stay was longer in two‐stage group, the complication rates were lower.
Phonetic and Lexical Crosslinguistic Influence in Early Spanish–Basque–English Trilinguals
Authors: Stoehr Antje , Jevtović Mina , de Bruin Angela , Martin Clara D.
Published: May 2023

A central question in multilingualism research is how multiple languages interact. Most studies have focused on first (L1) and second language (L2) effects on a third language (L3), but a small number of studies dedicated to the opposite transfer direction have suggested stronger L3 influence on L2 than on L1 in postpuberty learners. In our study, we provide further support for stronger L3‐to‐L2 than L3‐to‐L1 influence and show that it extends to (a) phonetics and the lexicon and (b) childhood learners. Fifty Spanish–Basque–English trilingual adults who had acquired Spanish from birth and Basque between 2 to 4 years of age through immersion participated in a speeded trilingual switching task measuring production of voice onset time and lexical intrusions. Participants experienced more phonetic and lexical crosslinguistic influence from L3 English during L2‐Basque production than during L1‐Spanish production. These findings show that even highly proficient early bilinguals experience differential influence from a classroom‐taught L3 to L1 and to L2.
Detecting and analysing intraspecific genetic variation with eDNA: From population genetics to species abundance
Authors: Andres Kara J. , Lodge David M. , Sethi Suresh A. , Andrés Jose
Published: May 2023

Advancements in environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches have allowed for rapid and efficient species detections in diverse environments. Although most eDNA research is focused on leveraging genetic diversity to identify taxa, some recent studies have explored the potential for these approaches to detect within‐species genetic variation, allowing for population genetic assessments and abundance estimates from environmental samples. However, we currently lack a framework outlining the key considerations specific to generating, analysing and applying eDNA data for these two purposes. Here, we discuss how various genetic markers differ with regard to genetic information and detectability in environmental samples and how analysis of eDNA samples differs from common tissue‐based analyses. We then outline how it may be possible to obtain species absolute abundance estimates from eDNA by detecting intraspecific genetic variation in mixtures of DNA under multiple scenarios. We also identify the major causes contributing to allele detection and frequency errors in eDNA data, discuss their consequences for population‐level analyses and outline bioinformatic approaches to detect and remove erroneous sequences. This review summarizes the key advances required to harness the full potential of eDNA‐based intraspecific genetic variation to inform population‐level questions in ecology, evolutionary biology and conservation management.
Design and evaluation of an independent 4‐week, exosuit‐assisted, post‐stroke community walking program
Authors: Nuckols Richard W. , Chang Chih‐Kang , Kim Daekyum , Eckert‐Erdheim Asa , Orzel Dorothy , Baker Lauren , Baker Teresa , Wendel Nicholas C. , Quinlivan Brendan , Murphy Patrick , Grupper Jesse , Villalobos Jacqueline , Awad Louis N. , Ellis Terry D. , Walsh Conor J.
Published: May 2023

Chronic impairment in the paretic ankle following stroke often requires that individuals use compensatory patterns such as asymmetric propulsion to achieve effective walking speeds needed for community engagement. Ankle exosuit assistance can provide ankle biomechanical benefit in the lab, but such environments inherently limit the amount of practice available. Community walking studies without exosuits can provide massed practice and benefit walking speed but are limited in their ability to assist proper mechanics. In this study, we combined the positive aspects of community training with those of exosuit assistance. We developed and evaluated a community Robotic Exosuit Augmented Locomotion (cREAL) program. Four participants in the chronic stage of stroke independently used our community ankle exosuit for walking in the community 3–5 days/week for 4 weeks. We performed lab evaluations before and after the 4‐week program. Two participants significantly improved their unassisted paretic propulsion by an average of 27% after the program and walked on average 4001 steps/day more in the week following the program. Despite the small number of participants, this study provides preliminary evidence for the potential of exosuits to augment gait training and rehabilitation in the community.
Grazing in a megagrazer‐dominated savanna does not reduce soil carbon stocks, even at high intensities
Authors: Hyvarinen Olli , te Beest Mariska , le Roux Elizabeth , Kerley Graham I. H. , Findlay Nicola , Schenkeveld Walter D. C. , Trouw Victor , Cromsigt Joris P. G. M
Published: May 2023

Recent studies suggest that wild animals can promote ecosystem carbon sinks through their impacts on vegetation and soils. However, livestock studies show that intense levels of grazing reduce soil organic carbon (SOC), leading to concerns that rewilding with large grazers may compromise ecosystem carbon storage. Furthermore, wild grazers can both limit and promote woody plant recruitment and survival on savanna grasslands, with both positive and negative impacts on SOC, depending on the rainfall and soil texture contexts. We used grazing lawns in one of the few African protected savannas that are still dominated by megagrazers (> 1000 kg), namely white rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum, as a model to study the impact of prolonged and intense wild grazing on SOC stocks. We contrasted SOC stocks between patches of varying grazing intensity and woody plant encroachment in sites across different rhino habitat types. We found no differences in SOC stocks between the most‐ and least grazed plots in any of the habitats. Intermediately grazed plots, however, had higher SOC stocks in the top 5 cm compared to most and least grazed plots, but only in the closed‐canopy woodland habitat and not in the open habitats. Importantly, we found no evidence to support the hypothesis that wild grazing reduces SOC, even at high grazing intensities by the world's largest megagrazer. Compared to the non‐encroached reference plots, woody encroached plots had higher SOC stocks in soils with low clay content and lower SOC stocks in soils with high clay content, although only in the top 5 cm. Accordingly, our study highlights that wild grazers may influence SOC indirectly through their impact on tree‐grass ratios in grassy ecosystems. Our study thus provides important insights for future natural climate solutions that focus on wild grazer conservation and restoration.

Keywords: fire, grazing impact, rewilding, soil carbon, white rhinoceros, woody encroachment
Fine mapping of qAHPS07 and functional studies of AhRUVBL2 controlling pod size in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Yang Hui , Luo Lu , Li Yuying , Li Huadong , Zhang Xiurong , Zhang Kun , Zhu Suqing , Li Xuanlin , Li Yingjie , Wan Yongshan , Liu Fengzhen
Published: May 2023

Cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oil and cash crop. Pod size is one of the major traits determining yield and commodity characteristic of peanut. Fine mapping of quantitative trait locus (QTL) and identification of candidate genes associated with pod size are essential for genetic improvement and molecular breeding of peanut varieties. In this study, a major QTL related to pod size, qAHPS07, was fine mapped to a 36.46 kb interval on chromosome A07 using F2, recombinant inbred line (RIL) and secondary F2 populations. qAHPS07 explained 38.6%, 23.35%, 37.48%, 25.94% of the phenotypic variation for single pod weight (SPW), pod length (PL), pod width (PW) and pod shell thickness (PST), respectively. Whole genome resequencing and gene expression analysis revealed that a RuvB‐like 2 protein coding gene AhRUVBL2 was the most likely candidate for qAHPS07. Overexpression of AhRUVBL2 in Arabidopsis led to larger seeds and plants than the wild type. AhRUVBL2‐silenced peanut seedlings represented small leaves and shorter main stems. Three haplotypes were identified according to three SNPs in the promoter of AhRUVBL2 among 119 peanut accessions. Among them, SPW, PW and PST of accessions carrying Hap_ATT represent 17.6%, 11.2% and 26.3% higher than those carrying Hap_GAC，respectively. In addition, a functional marker of AhRUVBL2 was developed. Taken together, our study identified a key functional gene of peanut pod size, which provides new insights into peanut pod size regulation mechanism and offers practicable markers for the genetic improvement of pod size‐related traits in peanut breeding.
Optimizing quantitative trait loci introgression in elite rice germplasms: Comparing methods and population sizes to develop new recipients via stochastic simulations
Authors: Platten John Damien , Fritsche‐Neto Roberto
Published: May 2023

This study compared three strategies to develop new recipients for quantitative trait loci (QTL) introgression (background recovery [BG], selective sweep [SS] and breeding value [BV]) in a short‐term rice breeding programme (over five breeding cycles). Furthermore, we evaluated two different numbers of recipients (10 and 20) in the introgression process and how they influence the population performance and the QTL fixation over cycles. Finally, we used the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) rice breeding framework as the model to perform the stochastic simulations. Each strategy was simulated and replicated 100 times. Regardless of the selection strategy used, the QTL introgression resulted in substantial penalties in yield performance. However, introducing fewer new parents to the augmentation process minimized this effect. Conversely, the time required to achieve fixation of target QTLs showed substantial differences, with selection for BV during augmentation outperforming other methods. Overall, the BV_10 strategy (10 parents selected based on genomic estimated BV) displayed the best trade‐off between reduced penalty from introducing new QTLs with a reasonable speed at which those QTLs can achieve fixation over subsequent breeding cycles.
Epsilon poly‐lysine in buffalo semen extender: A step towards reducing the development of antibiotic resistance
Authors: Yadav Usha , Dutt Ravi , Bansal Krishna , Gupta Akansha , Bala Renu , Bhardwaj Shivani , Verma Nisha , Bishnoi Manju , Kumar Dharmendra , Datta Tirtha Kumar , Kumar Pradeep
Published: May 2023

The use of antibiotics in semen extenders can contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance. The objective of the study was to evaluate epsilon‐polylysine (Ɛ‐PL) as a substitute for antibiotics in the buffalo semen extender. For this, 20 semen ejaculates were collected from four Murrah buffalo bulls. Each ejaculate was divided into three equal aliquots and extended into an egg yolk‐based semen extender containing either antibiotics (strepto‐penicillin) or different concentrations of Ɛ‐PL (0.64 and 1.28 g/L) to make the final concentration 80 million sperm/mL and cryopreserved as per the standard procedure. The antibiogram sensitivity test confirmed that Ɛ‐PL is an effective antimicrobial against microbes present in buffalo semen ejaculates. Furthermore, the addition of Ɛ‐PL in the semen extender significantly reduces the colony forming unit (CFU)/mL in cryopreserved semen equivalent to strepto‐penicillin. The sperm motility and kinematic parameters assessed by a computer‐assisted sperm analyser showed that Ɛ‐PL did not inhibit either sperm motility not kinematic parameters of cryopreserved sperm. The flow‐cytometric evaluation of frozen–thawed sperm revealed interesting results. The extender supplemented with Ɛ‐PL protected sperm acrosome and mitochondrial membrane potential greater than the extender supplemented with strepto‐penicillin. Further, Ɛ‐PL reduced significantly the production of superoxide anions from mitochondria during the cryopreservation process. In this way, Ɛ‐PL may be a suitable alternative to antibiotics in semen extenders. In conclusion, Ɛ‐PL at a concentration of 0.64 g/L acts as an effective antimicrobial as well as antioxidant in semen extender for cryopreservation of buffalo sperm.
Autophagy gene Atg7 regulates the development of radiation‐induced skin injury and fibrosis of skin
Authors: Chen Xinyi , Qin Wan , Wang Lu , Jin Yu , Tu Jingyao , Yuan Xianglin
Published: May 2023

Background

Radiation‐induced skin injury, which may progress to fibrosis, is a severe side effect of radiotherapy in patients with cancer. However, currently, there is a lack of preventive or curative treatments for this injury. Meanwhile, the mechanisms underlying this injury remain poorly understood. Here, we elucidated whether autophagy is essential for the development of radiation‐induced skin injury and the potential molecular pathways and mechanisms involved.

Methods and results

We used the myofibroblast‐specific Atg7 knockout (namely, conditional Atg7 knockout) mice irradiated with a single electron beam irradiation dose of 30 Gy. Vaseline‐based 0.2% rapamycin ointment was topically applied once daily from the day of irradiation for 30 days. On day 30 post irradiation, skin tissues were harvested for further analysis. In vitro, human foreskin fibroblast cells were treated with rapamycin (100 nM) for 24 h and pretreated with 3‐MA (5 mM) for 12 h. Macroscopic skin manifestations, histological changes, and fibrosis markers at the mRNA and protein expression levels were measured. Post irradiation, the myofibroblast‐specific autophagy‐deficient (Atg7Flox/Flox Cre+) mice had increased fibrosis marker (COL1A1, CTGF, TGF‐β1, and α‐SMA) levels in the irradiated area and had more severe macroscopic skin manifestations than the control group (Atg7Flox/Flox Cre−) mice. Treatment with an autophagy agonist rapamycin attenuated macroscopic skin injury scores and skin fibrosis marker levels with decreased epidermal thickness and dermal collagen deposition in Atg7Flox/Flox Cre+ mice compared with the vehicle control. Moreover, in vitro experiment results were consistent with the in vivo results. Together with studies at the molecular level, we found that these changes involved the Akt/mTOR pathway. In addition, this phenomenon might also relate to Nrf2‐autophagy signaling pathway under oxidative stress conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Atg7 and autophagy‐related mechanisms confer radioprotection, and reactivation of the autophagy process can be a novel therapeutic strategy to reduce and prevent the occurrence of radiodermatitis, particularly skin fibrosis, in patients with cancer.
The taut polynomial and the Alexander polynomial
Authors: Parlak Anna
Published: May 2023

Landry, Minsky and Taylor defined the taut polynomial of a veering triangulation. Its specialisations generalise the Teichmüller polynomial of a fibred face of the Thurston norm ball. We prove that the taut polynomial of a veering triangulation is equal to a certain twisted Alexander polynomial of the underlying manifold. Thus, the Teichmüller polynomials are just specialisations of twisted Alexander polynomials. We also give formulae relating the taut polynomial and the untwisted Alexander polynomial. There are two formulae, depending on whether the maximal free abelian cover of a veering triangulation is edge‐orientable or not. Furthermore, we consider 3‐manifolds obtained by Dehn filling a veering triangulation. In this case, we give formulae that relate the specialisation of the taut polynomial under a Dehn filling and the Alexander polynomial of the Dehn‐filled manifold. This extends a theorem of McMullen connecting the Teichmüller polynomial and the Alexander polynomial to the non‐fibred setting, and improves it in the fibred case. We also prove a sufficient and necessary condition for the existence of an orientable fibred class in the cone over a fibred face of the Thurston norm ball.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor is a proviral host factor and a candidate pan-SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic target
Authors: Shi Jiandong , Du Tingfu , Wang Junbin , Tang Cong , Lei Mengyue , Yu Wenhai , Yang Yun , Ma Ying , Huang Pu , Chen Hongli , Wang Xu , Sun Jing , Wang Haixuan , Zhang Yong , Luo Fangyu , Huang Qing , Li Bai , Lu Shuaiyao , Hu Yunzhang , Peng Xiaozhong
Published: May 2023

The emergence of a series of SARS-CoV-2 variants has necessitated the search for broad-spectrum antiviral targets. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) senses tryptophan metabolites and is an immune regulator. However, the role of AhR in SARS-CoV-2 infection and whether AhR can be used as the target of antiviral therapy against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants are yet unclear. Here, we show that infection with SARS-CoV-2 activates AhR signaling and facilitates viral replication by interfering with IFN-I–driven antiviral immunity and up-regulating ACE2 receptor expression. The pharmacological AhR blockade or AhR knockout reduces SARS-CoV-2 and its variants’ replication in vitro. Drug targeting of AhR with AhR antagonists markedly reduced SARS-CoV-2 and its variants’ replication in vivo and ameliorated lung inflammation caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection in hamsters. Overall, AhR was a SARS-CoV-2 proviral host factor and a candidate host-directed broad-spectrum target for antiviral therapy against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, including Delta and Omicron, and potentially other variants in the future.
Toward highly efficient deep-blue OLEDs: Tailoring the multiresonance-induced TADF molecules for suppressed excimer formation and near-unity horizontal dipole ratio
Authors: Kim Hyung Suk , Cheon Hyung Jin , Lee Donggyun , Lee Woochan , Kim Junho , Kim Yun-Hi , Yoo Seunghyup
Published: May 2023

Boron-based compounds exhibiting a multiresonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence are regarded promising as a narrowband blue emitter desired for efficient displays with wide color gamut. However, their planar nature makes them prone to concentration-induced excimer formation that broadens the emission spectrum, making it hard to increase the emitter concentration without raising CIE
y
coordinate. To overcome this bottleneck, we here propose
o
-Tol-ν-DABNA-Me, wherein sterically hindered peripheral phenyl groups are introduced to reduce intermolecular interactions, leading to excimer formation and thus making the pure narrowband emission character far less sensitive to concentration. With this approach, we demonstrate deep-blue OLEDs with
y
of 0.12 and full width at half maximum of 18 nm, with maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of ca. 33%. Adopting a hyperfluorescent architecture, the OLED performance is further enhanced to EQE of 35.4%, with mitigated efficiency roll-off, illustrating the immense potential of the proposed method for energy-efficient deep-blue OLEDs.
Geological sketch map and implications for ice flow of Thwaites Glacier, West Antarctica, from integrated aerogeophysical observations
Authors: Jordan Tom A. , Thompson Sarah , Kulessa Bernd , Ferraccioli Fausto
Published: May 2023

The geology beneath Thwaites Glacier, the Antarctic glacial catchment most vulnerable to climate change, is unknown. Thwaites Glacier lies within the West Antarctic Rift System, but details of the subglacial geology relevant to glacial flow, including sediment availability, underlying lithology, and heat flux, are lacking. We present the first sketch map of the subglacial geology of Thwaites Glacier, interpreted from maps of airborne gravity, magnetic and radar data, supported by 2D models and 3D inversion of subsurface properties, and the regional geological context. A zone of Cretaceous mafic magmatism extending ~200 km inland from the coast is interpreted, while sedimentary basins are restricted to a region 150 to 200 km inboard of the coast, underlying just 20% of the catchment. Several granitic subglacial highlands are identified, forming long-lived topographic highs. Our geological interpretation places constraints on the basal properties of Thwaites Glacier, laying the foundation for both improved predictions of ice sheet change and studies of West Antarctic tectonics.
Probing and harnessing photonic Fermi arc surface states using light-matter interactions
Authors: García-Elcano Iñaki , Merino Jaime , Bravo-Abad Jorge , González-Tudela Alejandro
Published: May 2023

Fermi arcs, i.e., surface states connecting topologically distinct Weyl points, represent a paradigmatic manifestation of the topological aspects of Weyl physics. We investigate a light-matter interface based on the photonic counterpart of these states and prove that it can lead to phenomena with no analog in other setups. First, we show how to image the Fermi arcs by studying the spontaneous decay of one or many emitters coupled to the system’s border. Second, we demonstrate that, exploiting the negative refraction of these modes, the Fermi arc surface states can act as a robust quantum link, enabling, e.g., the occurrence of perfect quantum state transfer between the considered emitters or the formation of highly entangled states. In addition to their fundamental interest, our findings evidence the potential offered by the photonic Fermi arc light-matter interfaces for the design of more robust quantum technologies.
Fear extinction relies on ventral hippocampal safety codes shaped by the amygdala
Authors: Nguyen Robin , Koukoutselos Konstantinos , Forro Thomas , Ciocchi Stéphane
Published: May 2023

Extinction memory retrieval is influenced by spatial contextual information that determines responding to conditioned stimuli (CS). However, it is poorly understood whether contextual representations are imbued with emotional values to support memory selection. Here, we performed activity-dependent engram tagging and in vivo single-unit electrophysiological recordings from the ventral hippocampus (vH) while optogenetically manipulating basolateral amygdala (BLA) inputs during the formation of cued fear extinction memory. During fear extinction when CS acquire safety properties, we found that CS-related activity in the vH reactivated during sleep consolidation and was strengthened upon memory retrieval. Moreover, fear extinction memory was facilitated when the extinction context exhibited precise coding of its affective zones. Last, these activity patterns along with the retrieval of the fear extinction memory were dependent on glutamatergic transmission from the BLA during extinction learning. Thus, fear extinction memory relies on the formation of contextual and stimulus safety representations in the vH instructed by the BLA.
Processing of methane and acetylene ices by galactic cosmic rays and implications to the color diversity of Kuiper Belt objects
Authors: Zhang Chaojiang , Zhu Cheng , Turner Andrew M. , Antonov Ivan O. , Garcia Adrien D. , Meinert Cornelia , Young Leslie A. , Jewitt David C. , Kaiser Ralf I.
Published: May 2023

Kuiper Belt objects exhibit a wider color range than any other solar system population. The origin of this color diversity is unknown, but likely the result of the prolonged irradiation of organic materials by galactic cosmic rays (GCRs). Here, we combine ultrahigh-vacuum irradiation experiments with comprehensive spectroscopic analyses to examine the color evolution during GCR processing methane and acetylene under Kuiper Belt conditions. This study replicates the colors of a population of Kuiper Belt objects such as Makemake, Orcus, and Salacia. Aromatic structural units carrying up to three rings as in phenanthrene (C
14
H
10
), phenalene (C
9
H
10
), and acenaphthylene (C
12
H
8
), of which some carry structural motives of DNA and RNA connected via unsaturated linkers, were found to play a key role in producing the reddish colors. These studies demonstrate the level of molecular complexity synthesized of GCR processing hydrocarbon and hint at the role played by irradiated ice in the early production of biological precursor molecules.
The neuromechanics of animal locomotion: From biology to robotics and back
Authors: Ramdya Pavan , Ijspeert Auke Jan
Published: May 2023

Robotics and neuroscience are sister disciplines that both aim to understand how agile, efficient, and robust locomotion can be achieved in autonomous agents. Robotics has already benefitted from neuromechanical principles discovered by investigating animals. These include the use of high-level commands to control low-level central pattern generator–like controllers, which, in turn, are informed by sensory feedback. Reciprocally, neuroscience has benefited from tools and intuitions in robotics to reveal how embodiment, physical interactions with the environment, and sensory feedback help sculpt animal behavior. We illustrate and discuss exemplar studies of this dialog between robotics and neuroscience. We also reveal how the increasing biorealism of simulations and robots is driving these two disciplines together, forging an integrative science of autonomous behavioral control with many exciting future opportunities.
Inhibition of FGF23 is a therapeutic strategy to target hematopoietic stem cell niche defects in β-thalassemia
Authors: Aprile Annamaria , Raggi Laura , Bolamperti Simona , Villa Isabella , Storto Mariangela , Morello Gaia , Marktel Sarah , Tripodo Claudio , Cappellini Maria Domenica , Motta Irene , Rubinacci Alessandro , Ferrari Giuliana
Published: May 2023

Clinical evidence highlights a relationship between the blood and the bone, but the underlying mechanism linking these two tissues is not fully elucidated. Here, we used β-thalassemia as a model of congenital anemia with bone and bone marrow (BM) niche defects. We demonstrate that fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is increased in patients and mice with β-thalassemia because erythropoietin induces FGF23 overproduction in bone and BM erythroid cells via ERK1/2 and STAT5 pathways. We show that in vivo inhibition of FGF23 signaling by carboxyl-terminal FGF23 peptide is a safe and efficacious therapeutic strategy to rescue bone mineralization and deposition in mice with β-thalassemia, normalizing the expression of niche factors and restoring hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) function. FGF23 may thus represent a molecular link connecting anemia, bone, and the HSC niche. This study provides a translational approach to targeting bone defects and rescuing HSC niche interactions, with potential clinical relevance for improving HSC transplantation and gene therapy for hematopoietic disorders.
The Influence of Heteroresistance on Minimum Inhibitory Concentration, Investigated Using Weak-Acid Stress in Food Spoilage Yeasts
Authors: Violet Joseph , Smid Joost , Pielaat Annemarie , Sanders Jan-Willem , Avery Simon V.
Published: May 2023

Food spoilage by fungi is a leading cause of food waste, with specialized food spoilage yeasts capable of growth at preservative concentrations above the legal limit, in part due to heteroresistance allowing small subpopulations of cells to exhibit extreme preservative resistance. Whereas heteroresistance has been characterized in numerous ecological contexts, measuring this phenotype systematically and assessing its importance are not encompassed by conventional assay methods.
Bacterial Chitinases and Their Role in Human Infection
Authors: Devlin Jason R. , Behnsen Judith
Published: May 2023

It has been widely appreciated that numerous bacterial species express chitinases for the purpose of degrading environmental chitin. However, chitinases and chitin-binding proteins are also expressed by pathogenic bacterial species during infection even though mammals do not produce chitin.
Staphylococcus aureus SigS Induces Expression of a Regulatory Protein Pair That Modulates Its mRNA Stability
Authors: Al Ali Amer , Alsulami Jamilah , Aubee Joseph I. , Idowu Ayotimofe , Tomlinson Brooke R. , Felton Emily A. , Jackson Jessica K. , Kennedy Sarah J. , Torres Nathanial J. , Shaw Lindsey N. , Thompson Karl M.
Published: May 2023

SigS is necessary for
S. aureus
virulence, immune evasion, and adaptation to chemical and environmental stressors. These processes are critically important for the ability of
S. aureus
to cause disease.
TMEM41B Is an Interferon-Stimulated Gene That Promotes Pseudorabies Virus Replication
Authors: Li Xiu-Qing , Zeng Lei , Liang Dong-Ge , Qi Yan-Li , Yang Guo-Yu , Zhong Kai , Chu Bei-Bei , Wang Jiang
Published: May 2023

PRV belongs to the alphaherpesvirus subfamily and can establish and maintain a lifelong latent infection in pigs. As such, an intermittent active cycle presents great challenges to the prevention and control of PRV disease and is responsible for serious economic losses to the pig breeding industry.
DTX3L Enhances Type I Interferon Antiviral Response by Promoting the Ubiquitination and Phosphorylation of TBK1
Authors: Huang Jiaqi , Chen Zhengrong , Ye Yunfei , Shao Yu , Zhu Peijie , Li Xiaoping , Ma Yu , Xu Fei , Zhou Ji , Wu Mengyun , Gao Xiu , Yang Yi , Zhang Jinping , Hao Chuangli
Published: May 2023

Our present study evaluated DTX3L as an antiviral molecule by promoting IFN production and establishing an IFN-β–ETS1–DTX3L–TBK1 positive-feedback loop as a novel immunomodulatory step to enhance interferon signaling and inhibit respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Our finding enriches and complements the biological function of DTX3L and provides a new strategy to protect against lung diseases such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia that develop with RSV.
Complete Genome Sequence of Campylobacter jejuni BSD5, a Multidrug-Resistant Isolate from a Poultry Processing Facility in the United States
Authors: He Yiping , Reed Sue , Gunther Nereus W. , Armstrong Cheryl M. , Capobianco Joseph
Published: May 2023

Raw poultry can harbor microbial pathogens.
Campylobacter jejuni
BSD5, isolated from a critical control point within a poultry production plant, was sequenced. Genome annotation revealed several virulence genes including antibiotic resistance genes in agreement with the phenotypic results, indicating a potential risk of this strain to public health.
A randomised controlled trial of gemcitabine hydrochloride plus S-1 combination therapy versus gemcitabine hydrochloride therapy alone in pancreatic cancer patients aged ≥75 years: a study protocol for an open-label randomised feasibility study
Authors: Ishii Hiroshi , Yamashita Natsumi , Ueno Makoto , Ohkawa Shinichi , Saito Akiko M , Sekimoto Mitsugu
Published: May 2023

Introduction

In Japan, the age of patients with pancreatic cancer has increased. Combination chemotherapies such as 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin, oxaliplatin and irinotecan therapy and gemcitabine hydrochloride (GEM) +nab paclitaxel therapy have been developed as the standard treatments for young patients with advanced recurrent pancreatic cancer. However, both therapies produce toxicity and their administration is limited by the patients’ age or performance status. The efficacy and safety data obtained in the GEST study—a large-scale randomised controlled study conducted in patients with pancreatic cancer in Japan—suggested that GEM +S-1 (GS) combination therapy is a promising candidate for those aged between 75 and 80 years. However, for patients aged ≥80 years, no efficacy or safety data on GS therapy are currently available.

Methods and analysis

This open-label, randomised phase II study will involve patients with advanced recurrent pancreatic cancer, aged ≥75 years, with favourable general conditions. Using the electronic data capture system, participants will be randomly allocated to groups with standard treatment (GEM therapy alone) and study treatment (GS therapy). The treatments will be administered until the conditions meet the discontinuation criteria. The primary endpoint is overall survival.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has been approved by the National Hospital Organisation’s Central Review Board (H28-NHOD-01).

Discussion

This study will reveal if GS therapy could be a standard treatment option for elderly patients with pancreatic cancer, by clarifying its efficacy and safety.

Trial registration number

UMIN000025747; Pre-results.
Effect of exercise therapy on sarcopenia in pancreatic cancer: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Yoh Kazunori , Nishikawa Hiroki , Enomoto Hirayuki , Ishii Noriko , Iwata Yoshinori , Ishii Akio , Yuri Yukihisa , Miyamoto Yuho , Hasegawa Kunihiro , Nakano Chikage , Takata Ryo , Nishimura Takashi , Aizawa Nobuhiro , Sakai Yoshiyuki , Ikeda Naoto , Takashima Tomoyuki , Iijima Hiroko , Nishiguchi Shuhei
Published: May 2023

Introduction and purpose

Sarcopenia is defined as a decrease in muscle mass and muscle strength, and it has been demonstrated to be an adverse predictor in numerous types of cancers. Exercise therapy (ET) carries multiple health benefits in several diseases. Despite these clinical benefits, there are limited data available regarding patients with pancreatic cancer (PC) undergoing ET. We aim to prospectively examine the effect of ET on sarcopenia in patients with PC.

Methods and analysis

All clinical stages of PC can be included. When registering study subjects, a precise evaluation of the nutritional status and the daily physical activities performed will be undertaken individually, for each participant. Study participants will be randomly allocated into two groups: (1) the ET and standard therapy group and (2) the standard therapy group. Amelioration of sarcopenia at 3 months postrandomisation will be the primary endpoint. Muscle mass will be calculated using bioimpedance analysis. Sarcopenia will be defined based on the current Asian guidelines. Participants will be instructed to perform exercises with>3 metabolic equivalents (mets; energy consumption in physical activities/resting metabolic rate) for 60 min/day and to perform exercises with>23 mets/week. In the ET group, physical activities equal to or greater than walking for 60 min/day will be strongly recommended.

Ethics and dissemination

The Institutional Review Board at Hyogo College of Medicine has approved this study protocol (approval no. 2772). The final data will be publicly announced. A report releasing the study results will be submitted for publication.

Trial registration number

UMIN000029271; Pre-results.
Dutch individuals’ views of screening for oesophageal cancer: a focus group study
Authors: Sijben Jasmijn , Peters Yonne , Bas Sharell , Siersema Peter , Rainey Linda , Broeders Mireille
Published: May 2023

Objective

Screening for early oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC), including its precursor Barrett’s oesophagus (BO), can potentially reduce OAC-related morbidity and mortality. This study explores Dutch at-risk individuals’ views of screening an at-risk population for BO/OAC.

Design

We invited 372 individuals with risk factors for OAC from primary care practices, 73 individuals with surveillance experience, and 221 participants of previous studies (BO/OAC screening trial or survey) to participate in focus groups. Transcripts were inductively and thematically analysed by two independent researchers.

Results

A total of 50 individuals (42% with gastro-oesophageal reflux symptoms) of 50–75 years participated. Themes that were raised included: theme 1 ‘screening intentions’ describing participants’ motivation to be screened (eg, early diagnosis, potential reassurance, physician recommendation, and knowing someone with cancer) or decline screening (eg, anticipated discomfort or suboptimal accuracy of the test); theme 2 ‘risk-based eligibility’ describing the tension between effectiveness (eg, targeting high-risk individuals) and inclusivity (eg, making screening available for everyone); theme 3 ‘distributive justice’, in which the pressure of a potential new screening programme on healthcare resources was discussed; and theme 4 ‘information needs’ describing the perceived lack of information access and individuals’ preference to discuss screening with their general practitioner.

Conclusion

Individuals not only expressed high willingness to be screened but also voiced the concern that a new screening programme may pressure limited healthcare resources. If implemented, it is crucial to develop educational materials that meet the public’s information needs and explain the test procedures and eligibility criteria while avoiding stigmatising language.
An exploration of stakeholder views and perceptions on taxing tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages in Ghana
Authors: Singh Arti , Smith Katherine , Hellowell Mark , Logo Divine Darlington , Marten Robert , Suu Lwin Kaung , Owusu-Dabo Ellis
Published: May 2023

Background

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for nearly 43% of Ghana’s all-cause mortality. Unhealthy commodities (such as alcohol, sugar and tobacco) are an important factor in the growing NCD burden in the region of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite health taxes on tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) gaining renewed attention, adoption and implementation in SSA remain limited. This study aims to unpack the contextual politics and to examine current perceptions of opportunities and barriers for health taxes in Ghana.

Methods

Semistructured qualitative interviews (n=19) conducted with purposively sampled stakeholders representing four sectors: government, civil society, media and international organisations, and two group interviews with nine industry stakeholders, informed by a review of relevant literature and policy/advocacy documents.

Results

Stakeholders had a general belief that such taxes are primarily useful for revenue generation (for health spending) rather than for reducing consumption and improving health. There do appear to be opportunities for health taxes with stakeholders broadly supportive of taxing SSBs. This support could be strengthened via ‘health’ framing of any new tax proposals, the generation of Ghana-specific evidence about the potential impacts of such taxes and greater public awareness. Industry actors and some government representatives opposed health taxes, citing concerns about the potential to increase illicit trade and economic harm. Some stakeholders also believed that links between politicians and affected industries represent an important barrier.

Conclusion

These findings identify opportunities to introduce health taxes but also underline the potential resistance from affected industry stakeholders. Nevertheless, a strategic approach that focuses on achieving policy coherence (between central government, health and economic ministries), combined with efforts to strengthen stakeholder and public support, may weaken the lobbying position of industry. Such efforts could be supported by research to help demonstrate the value of different designs of health taxes for achieving Ghana’s health goals and to better understand industry–political links.
Transforming healthcare logistics and evaluating current use cases of UAVs (drones) as a method of transportation in healthcare to generate recommendations for the NHS to use drone technology at scale: a narrative review
Authors: Law Christopher Tejun , Moenig Catharina , Jeilani Hammad , Jeilani Milad , Young Tony
Published: May 2023

Drones have been pioneered and used in the military, however, only recently non-military drones have been introduced. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought into focus the potential value of drones in moving medical supplies. With the onset of social distancing policies and quarantine regulations, the efficiency of traditional logistics systems has been limited. Several companies have recently accelerated their development in this domain, conducting pilot projects at pace, paving the way for the future of the medical logistics supply chain. In this review, we examine both narrative and grey literature for in and out of hospital settings, in order to describe the current state of drone technology in healthcare around the world and some of the most cutting-edge examples of how drones can benefits patients, clinicians and the wider public. We investigate the economic viability and barriers to adopting drones at scale which include regulatory hurdles, public perception and safety of drone technologies, and propose how to overcome these challenges. Further work should look at quantifying the impact and outcomes of how such a service could impact the health outcomes of patients and clinical efficiency. This review aims to equip the National Health Service and more broadly other healthcare systems around the world with the tools to embrace and implement this novel and upcoming technology.