bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance improvement of iron chalcogenide films grown at high laser repetition rates by pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Mou Shaojing , Ye Jiachao , Zhu Rongji , Li Ruojie , Liu Linfei , Li Yijie
Published: September 2023

For mass production, a high deposition rate is necessary. A powerful approach is to deposit Fe(Se, Te) (FST) superconducting films at a high laser repetition rate by pulsed laser deposition. Hence, the FST films were grown on flexible metallic tapes using pulsed laser deposition at different laser repetition rates to explore the effect of laser repetition rate on the properties. It was found that as the laser repetition rate increases, the crystallinity and stoichiometry of FST films deteriorate, resulting in a degeneration in superconductivity. The critical temperature of the FST film deposited at a high repetition rate of 120 Hz dropped to 12.89 K. Furthermore, high‐performance FST film was successfully deposited at 120 Hz by increasing the substrate temperature with = 16.96 K and = 18.32 K. The self‐field critical current density can reach 1.3 MA/cm2 at 4.2 K. The analysis of the pinning mechanism reveals that normal surface pinning centers play a dominant part in the FST film and are independent of the temperature. The collective pinning theory states that the FST film exhibits δl pinning. The results may offer valuable information for rapid deposition of FST‐coated conductors for industrial production.
Geology constrains biomineralization expression and functional trait distribution in the Mountainsnails
Authors: Linscott T. Mason , Recla Nicole K. , Parent Christine E.
Published: September 2023

Aim

Geographic variation in metabolic resources necessary for functional trait expression can set limits on species distributions. For species that need to produce and maintain biomineralized traits for survival, spatial variation in mineral macronutrients may constrain species distributions by limiting the expression of biomineralized traits. Here, we examine whether Oreohelix land snails that express heavily biomineralized shell ornaments are restricted to CaCO3 rock regions, if they incorporate greater amounts of CaCO3 rock carbon in their shell than less biomineralized smooth forms, and if ornamentation increases shell strength.

Location

Western United States.

Taxon

Oreohelix land snails.

Methods

We used random forest classification models at multiple spatial resolutions to evaluate the contribution of topographic, vegetation, climate, and geologic variables in predicting the presence of heavily biomineralized shell ornaments across the range of Oreohelix. We then measured and compared shell biometric variables, 14C/12C ratios, and peak force for fracture for ornamented and smooth forms from calcareous and non‐calcareous substrates.

Results

Distance to CaCO3 rock was the most important variable in all models and closer proximity to CaCO3 rock was associated with greater probability of local ornamentation classification. Pairwise comparisons of 14C/12C ratios in closely occurring ornamented vs. smooth population pairs revealed ornamented forms incorporate greater CaCO3 rock carbon than smooth forms. Ornamented types measured in this study were generally heavier and required greater peak force for fracture than smooth forms, except when comparing ornamented forms to smooth forms sampled from CaCO3 rock.

Main Conclusions

Biomineralization expression, species distribution, and trait function appear to be constrained by mineral supply in a highly diverse group of land snails. This trait‐environment relationship provides a basis for future investigations of CaCO3 macronutrient constraints on shell form and species distribution in other terrestrial molluscs and has a direct impact on the management of Oreohelix species.
Unidirectional conduction characterizing epicardial connections in patients with atrial tachyarrhythmias
Authors: Yoshida Kentaro , Hasebe Hideyuki , Hattori Masayuki , Hanaki Yuichi , Tsumagari Yasuaki , Baba Masako , Nogami Akihiko , Takeyasu Noriyuki
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Electrophysiological characteristics of epicardial connections (ECs) in atria and pulmonary veins (PVs) are unclear despite their important contributions to atrial fibrillation (AF). Unidirectional conduction associated with source‐sink mismatch can occur in ECs due to their fine fibers with abrupt changes in orientation. We detailed the prevalence and electrophysiological characteristics of unidirectional conduction in the atria and investigated its association with the clinical manifestation of AF.

Methods

This study retrospectively reviewed electrophysiological studies and radiofrequency catheter ablation in 261 consecutive patients with AF.

Results

Unidirectional conduction was observed during ablation encircling the PVs in eight (3.1%) patients, and all occurred in the suspected (N = 4) or definitively (N = 4) recognized ECs. These ECs included three intercaval bundles, four septopulmonary bundles, and one Marshall bundle, and were first manifested in a second procedure in 6 (75%) patients. The unidirectional property was from PV to atrium (exit conduction) in all intercaval bundles and three septopulmonary bundles, and from atrium to PV (entrance conduction) in the remaining two bundles. Intercaval bundles acted as a limb of bi‐atrial macro‐reentrant tachycardia (50%, three of the six including previous cases). Ablation of the exit outside the PVs, including the right atrium, eliminated ECs in three (38%) patients. All patients remain free from arrhythmia recurrence after a mean 13‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

A unidirectional conduction property was closely associated with the EC, as estimated by histological findings. Recognition of this fact by electrophysiologists may help to clarify mechanisms for AF and atrial tachycardia and guide the creation of efficient and safe ablation lesion sets.
Pulsed field ablation for pulmonary vein isolation: Preclinical safety and effectiveness of a novel hexaspline ablation catheter
Authors: Yu Fengyuan , Dong Xiaonan , Ding Lei , Reddy Vivek , Tang Min
Published: September 2023

Background

Pulsed‐field ablation (PFA) has emerged as a nonthermal energy source for cardiac ablation, with potential safety advantages over radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryoballoon ablation.

Objective

To report the preclinical results of a novel hexaspline PFA catheter for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), and to verify the influence of PFA on esophagus by comparing with RFA.

Methods

This study included a total of 15 canines for the efficacy and safety study and four swine for the esophageal safety study. The 15 canines were divided into an acute cohort (n = 3), a 30‐day follow‐up cohort (n = 5) and a 90‐day follow‐up cohort (n = 7), PVI was performed with the novel hexaspline PFA ablation catheter. In the esophageal safety study, four swine were divided into PFA cohort (n = 2) and RFA cohort (n = 2), esophageal injury swine model was adopted, the esophagus was intubated with an esophageal balloon retractor, under fluoroscopy, the DV8 device was inflated with a mixture of saline and contrast and rotated to displace the esophagus rightward and anteriorly toward the ablation catheter in the inferior vena cava (IVC) and right inferior pulmonary vein (PV). Nine PFA applications were delivered at four locations on IVC and two locations on the right inferior PV in the PFA cohort, six RFA applications were delivered at each location in the RFA group. Histopathological analysis of all PVs, esophagus, IVC, and the adjacent lungs was performed.

Results

Acute PV isolation was achieved in all 15 canines (100%), with energy delivery times of less than 3 min/animal. In the 30 and 90 days group, the overall success rates were 88.9% and 88.5% per PVs, respectively. Two right superior pulmonary veins (RSPVs) in the 30‐day group, two RSPVs and one left superior PV in the 90‐day group with recovered potentials. At follow‐up, gross pathological examination revealed the lesions around the PVs were continuous and transmural. Masson's trichrome staining revealed the myocardial cells in the PVs became fibrotic, but small arteries and nervous tissue were preserved. Results of swine esophageal injury model revealed the esophageal luminal surface was smooth and without evidence for esophageal injury in the PFA group, whereas obvious ulceration was detected on the esophagus tunica mucosa in the RFA group.

Conclusion

In the chronic canine study, PFA‐based PVI were safe and effective with demonstrable sparing of nerves and venous tissue. Compared with RFA, there was also good evidence for safety of PFA, avoiding PV stenosis and esophageal injury. This preclinical study provided the scientific basis for the first‐in‐human endocardial PFA studies.
Epiberberine suppresses the metastasis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells by regulating the MMP‐13 and JNK pathway
Authors: Ho Hsin‐Yu , Chen Mu‐Kuan , Lin Chia‐Chieh , Lo Yu‐Sheng , Chuang Yi‐Ching , Hsieh Ming‐Ju
Published: September 2023

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most common histological types of head and neck cancer. Epiberberine is a potent antitumour agent for several types of cancer. This study is aimed at investigating the regulatory and molecular mechanism of epiberberine on HNSSC cell metastasis. The results showed that epiberberine inhibited the motility of Ca9‐22 and FaDu cell lines at nontoxicity doses. Moreover, the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐related proteins, vimentin, snail and slug, were found suppressing after epiberberine treatments. In addition, the JNK signalling cascade and the metalloproteinase 13 (MMP‐13) expression were also found downregulated by epiberberine. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that epiberberine suppresses cell migration and invasion by regulating the JNK pathway and MMP‐13. These results suggest that epiberberine could be a potential antimetastatic agent in HNSCC cells.
Sociocognitive Processes and Item Response Models: A Didactic Example
Authors: Gong Tao , Shuai Lan , Mislevy Robert J.
Published: September 2023

The usual interpretation of the person and task variables in between‐persons measurement models such as item response theory (IRT) is as attributes of persons and tasks, respectively. They can be viewed instead as ensemble descriptors of patterns of interactions among persons and situations that arise from sociocognitive complex adaptive system (CASs). This view offers insights for interpreting and using between‐persons measurement models and connecting with sociocognitive research. In this article, we use data generated from an agent‐based model to illustrate relations between “social” and “cognitive” features of a simple underlying CAS and the variables of an IRT model fit to resulting data. We note how the ideas connect to explanatory item response modeling and briefly comment on implications for score interpretations and uses in practice.
Transcription factor c‐Maf drives macrophages to promote hypertrophic scar formation
Authors: Yang Liu , Song Yajuan , Wang Tong , Cui Zhiwei , Wu JunZheng , Shi Yi , Yu Zhou , Song Baoqiang
Published: September 2023

Background

Hypertrophic scar (HS) is caused by the abnormal proliferation of fibroblasts and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Emerging evidence demonstrates that c‐Maf positive M2 macrophages were mainly located in the hypertrophic scar tissues of proliferative phase. But whether c‐Maf positive M2 macrophages can promote hypertrophic scar formation through modulating hypertrophic scar fibroblasts remains elusive.

Aims

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of c‐Maf positive M2 macrophages on the biological behaviors and functions of hypertrophic scar fibroblasts and the potential mechanism.

Methods

HE and Masson trichrome staining were used to examine the histological features of human hypertrophic scar. Immunofluorescence staining was employed to label and quantify the c‐Maf+/CD68+ M2 macrophages. CCK8, wound healing, and transwell assays were utilized to test the effects of c‐Maf overexpressed M2 macrophages or the cell culture supernatants on the proliferation and migration of hypertrophic scar derived fibroblasts (HFBs) and normal skin derived fibroblasts (NFBs). Western blot and qPCR were harnessed to test the expressions of COL1, COL3, and α‐SMA in the co‐cultivated fibroblasts and TGF‐β1 in the c‐Maf overexpressed M2 macrophages.

Results

Increased number of c‐Maf+/CD68+ M2 macrophages were found in HS in contrast to the normal skin (NS). Elevated proliferation and migration were observed in the HFBs or NFBs co‐cultured with c‐Maf overexpressed macrophages or the cell culture supernatants. A higher mRNA and protein expressions of COL1, COL3, and α‐SMA were recorded in the HFBs co‐cultured with c‐Maf overexpressed macrophages or treated with its culture supernatants. In addition, augmented mRNA and protein expressions of TGF‐β1 were also investigated in the c‐Maf overexpressed macrophages.

Conclusion

c‐Maf positive macrophages promote hypertrophic scar formation through regulating HFBs proliferation, migration, and ECM deposition via the secreted TGF‐β1.
Stylistic appearances and linguistic diversity
Authors: Contesi Filippo
Published: September 2023

Philosophy is beginning to pay problems of linguistic justice the attention they deserve in today's heavily interconnected and migrant world. Contemporary philosophy itself, however, has a particular problem of linguistic justice that deserves metaphilosophical attention. At least in the philosophical tradition that is mainstream in much of the world today, viz., analytic philosophy, methodological and sociological mechanisms make it the case that the voices of non‐(native) Anglophone philosophers are substantially less heard. Among the mechanisms responsible for this situation, argues this paper, is the emphasis given by influential philosophical institutions to linguistic style and appearances as signs of clarity, precision, and rigour in the treatment of philosophical problems. Such an emphasis is not justifiable, in part because it deprives philosophy of a wider variety of perspectives. The paper concludes by presenting and motivating a recent initiative that aims to foster greater linguistic and cultural diversity within the profession.
Eye growth pattern of myopic children wearing spectacle lenses with aspherical lenslets compared with non‐myopic children
Authors: Wong Yee Ling , Li Xue , Huang Yingying , Yuan Yimin , Ye Yingying , Lim Ee Woon , Yang Adeline , Spiegel Daniel , Drobe Björn , Bao Jinhua , Chen Hao
Published: September 2023

Introduction

To evaluate eye growth of children wearing spectacle lenses with highly aspherical lenslets (HAL), slightly aspherical lenslets (SAL) and single‐vision lenses (SVL) compared to eye growth patterns in non‐myopes in Wenzhou, China.

Methods

The randomised trial had 170 myopic children (aged 8–13 years) randomly assigned to the HAL, SAL or SVL group. Normal eye growth was examined using 700 non‐myopic schoolchildren (aged 7–9 years) in the Wenzhou Medical University‐Essilor Progression and Onset of Myopia (WEPrOM) cohort study using logistic function models. Slow, normal and fast eye growth was defined as range of values <25th, 25th–75th and >75th percentiles, respectively.

Results

The predicted upper limits of slow eye growth (25th percentile) among non‐myopes aged 7–10 years and 11–13 years were 0.20–0.13 and 0.08–0.01 mm (after 2‐year period; 0.37–0.33 and 0.29–0.14 mm), respectively, while the upper limits of normal eye growth (75th percentile) were 0.32–0.31 and 0.28–0.10 mm (after 2‐year period; 0.58–0.55 and 0.50–0.24 mm), respectively. The 2‐year trial had 157 children, 96 of whom wore their lenses full time (everyday ≥12 h/day). The mean 2‐year axial length change for HAL, SAL and SVL was 0.34, 0.51 and 0.69 mm (0.28, 0.46 and 0.69 mm in full‐time wear), respectively. Slow eye growth was found in 35%, 17% and 2% (44%, 29% and 3% in full‐time wear); normal eye growth in 35%, 26% and 12% (44%, 32% and 9% in full‐time wear) and fast eye growth in 30%, 57% and 86% (12%, 39% and 88% in full‐time wear), respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The eye growth pattern in approximately 90% wearing HAL full time (compared with about 10% wearing SVL full time) was similar or slower than that of non‐myopic children both after 1‐ and 2‐year periods.
The experiences of people who use injection drugs with accessing hepatitis c testing and diagnosis in western countries: A scoping review
Authors: Ho Nikki , Vandyk Amanda , Horvath Cynthia , Magboo Cahill Taliesin , O'Byrne Patrick
Published: September 2023

Background

The purpose of this scoping review was to summarize the literature that reported on the experiences of people who use injection drugs’ access to hepatitis C testing and diagnosis in Western countries.

Methods

The initial search was conducted in 2020 and an updated review was completed in 2022. Seven electronic databases were searched using a peer‐reviewed search strategy and included: full‐text, peer‐reviewed studies with people who inject(ed) drugs, hepatitis C testing or diagnosis, conducted in Western countries. Excluded were studies published prior to 2014 and intervention studies. Two‐step screening was conducted in duplicate. Conventional content analysis was used.

Results

Six studies were found from the search. The studies were published between 2014 and 2021 in Australia, United Kingdom, and United States. A total of 19 participant characteristics were extracted to contextualize their experiences, demonstrating a lack of demographic data. Four themes were found: Awareness and Knowledge, Stigma, Healthcare Service, and Psychological Responses. There were 58 occurrences of client quotes where participants described their experiences, 29 occurrences of quotes describing client‐identified barriers, and 14 occurrences of quotes describing client‐identified facilitators.

Conclusion

A scoping review was conducted to present the experiences, barriers, and facilitators of people who use injection drugs to hepatitis C testing. The lack of demographic data and connection to client quotes further exacerbates the inequities among the population by overlooking their intragroup identities. Understanding their experiences of accessing hepatitis C testing and collecting demographic data will help advance health policies and interventions targeting people who use injection drugs.
Estimating the health production function for Pakistan: Do environmental factors matter?
Authors: Majid Awan Abdul , Khan Muhammad Azam , Khan Saleem
Published: September 2023

It is essential for sustainable economic development to comprehend how environmental factors impact public health. This study analyses this relationship in the context of Pakistan using long‐term data. This study aims to determine how environmental factors influence health production function in Pakistan to enlighten policy decisions that can improve human life and advance the cause of sustainable development. We hypothesize, based on prior research, that urbanization and rainfall will increase life expectancy in Pakistan, while deforestation, temperature, and CO2 emissions will decrease it. To verify our theory, we use the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) method to calculate the long‐run association between the variables, as well as the Zivot–Andrews and Lee–Strazicich unit root tests to identify structural breaks. Utilizing the bound and Gregory–Hansen co‐integration tests, co‐integration is confirmed. According to ARDL estimates, there are statistically significant correlations between factors that affect Pakistan's life expectancy, such as deforestation, temperature, and CO2 emissions, as well as rainfall and urbanization. The findings of this study underscore the importance of addressing environmental degradation and deforestation in Pakistan. For enhancing human life and achieving sustainable development objectives in the nation, it is essential to modernize forest laws and regulations and adopt eco‐friendly technologies.
Rhythmic iron‐oxide bands of Navajo Sandstone concretions and Kimberley banded claystone: Formation process and buffering reaction rate by diagenetic alteration
Authors: Katsuta Nagayoshi , Sirono Sin‐iti , Umemura Ayako , Kawahara Hirokazu , Masuki Yuma , Yoshimizu Chikage , Tayasu Ichiro , Murakami Takuma , Yoshida Hidekazu
Published: September 2023

Both igneous and sedimentary rocks affected by water–rock interaction commonly form rhythmic Fe‐oxide bands that provide information on palaeo‐groundwater. This study investigated the formation of Fe‐oxide banded patterns of concentrically banded concretions from the Jurassic Navajo Sandstone (United States) and banded claystone ‘zebra rock’ from the Neoproterozoic Johnny Cake Shale Member (Western Australia). Micro‐X‐ray fluorescence imaging of both samples revealed uniformly banded patterns of asymmetrical Fe content peaks. This study proposes that their formations were caused by diffusion, with a pH buffering reaction of Fe2+ and O2 due to dissolution of earlier materials by acidic fluids. Based on the model, it is suggested that the acid fluids for Navajo diffused towards the inner side of the concretion, and that for Kimberley they penetrated oblique or perpendicular to bedding. In addition, the Fe‐oxide precipitation has resulted from pH rises of acidic fluids because of diagenetic alteration of earlier calcite concretion in Navajo and that of earlier pyrite‐bearing claystone in Kimberley. The interpretation for Kimberley is based on the δ34S values (<−20‰) of zebra rock, suggesting that the alunite and Fe‐oxide resulted from the supply of and Fe2+ produced as a result of pyrite oxidation in earlier rocks. The formation rate of the Fe‐oxide band was estimated from the constant width of the Fe peaks and the expected diffusion coefficient for Fe2+ through the rock matrix, and it was found to be on the order of years for Navajo and on the order of tens of years for Kimberley.
Integration of genome‐wide association study, linkage analysis, and population transcriptome analysis to reveal the TaFMO1‐5B modulating seminal root growth in bread wheat
Authors: Zhao Peng , Ma Xiuyun , Zhang Ruize , Cheng Mingzhu , Niu Yaxin , Shi Xue , Ji Wanquan , Xu Shengbao , Wang Xiaoming
Published: September 2023

Bread wheat, one of the keystone crops for global food security, is challenged by climate change and resource shortage. The root system plays a vital role in water and nutrient absorption, making it essential for meeting the growing global demand. Here, using an association‐mapping population composed of 406 accessions, we identified QTrl.Rs‐5B modulating seminal root development with a genome‐wide association study and validated its genetic effects with two F5 segregation populations. Transcriptome‐wide association study prioritized TaFMO1‐5B, a gene encoding the flavin‐containing monooxygenases, as the causal gene for QTrl.Rs‐5B, whose expression levels correlate negatively with the phenotyping variations among our population. The lines silenced for TaFMO1‐5B consistently showed significantly larger seminal roots in different genetic backgrounds. Additionally, the agriculture traits measured in multiple environments showed that QTrl.Rs‐5B also affects yield component traits and plant architecture‐related traits, and its favorable haplotype modulates these traits toward that of modern cultivars, suggesting the application potential of QTrl.Rs‐5B for wheat breeding. Consistently, the frequency of the favorable haplotype of QTrl.Rs‐5B increased with habitat expansion and breeding improvement of bread wheat. In conclusion, our findings identified and demonstrated the effects of QTrl.Rs‐5B on seminal root development and illustrated that it is a valuable genetic locus for wheat root improvement.
DARESOME enables concurrent profiling of multiple DNA modifications with restriction enzymes in single cells and cell-free DNA
Authors: Viswanathan Ramya , Cheruba Elsie , Wong Pui-Mun , Yi Yao , Ngang Shaun , Chong Dawn Qingqing , Loh Yuin-Han , Tan Iain Beehuat , Cheow Lih Feng
Published: September 2023

5-Methylcytosine (5mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) are the most abundant DNA modifications that have important roles in gene regulation. Detailed studies of these different epigenetic marks aimed at understanding their combined effects and dynamic interconversion are, however, hampered by the inability of current methods to simultaneously measure both modifications, particularly in samples with limited quantities. We present DNA analysis by restriction enzyme for simultaneous detection of multiple epigenomic states (DARESOME), an assay based on modification-sensitive restriction digest and sequential tag ligation that can concurrently perform quantitative profiling of unmodified cytosine, 5mC, and 5hmC in CCGG sites genome-wide. DARESOME reveals the opposing roles of 5mC and 5hmC in gene expression regulation as well as their interconversion during aging in mouse brain. Implementation of DARESOME in single cells demonstrates pronounced 5hmC strand bias that reflects the semiconservative replication of DNA. Last, we showed that DARESOME enables integrative genomic, 5mC, and 5hmC profiling of cell-free DNA that uncovered multiomics cancer signatures in liquid biopsy.
Broadband sensory networks with locally stored responsivities for neuromorphic machine vision
Authors: Zhang Guo-Xin , Zhang Zhi-Cheng , Chen Xu-Dong , Kang Lixing , Li Yuan , Wang Fu-Dong , Shi Lei , Shi Ke , Liu Zhi-Bo , Tian Jian-Guo , Lu Tong-Bu , Zhang Jin
Published: September 2023

As the most promising candidates for the implementation of in-sensor computing, retinomorphic vision sensors can constitute built-in neural networks and directly implement multiply-and-accumulation operations using responsivities as the weights. However, existing retinomorphic vision sensors mainly use a sustained gate bias to maintain the responsivity due to its volatile nature. Here, we propose an ion-induced localized-field strategy to develop retinomorphic vision sensors with nonvolatile tunable responsivity in both positive and negative regimes and construct a broadband and reconfigurable sensory network with locally stored weights to implement in-sensor convolutional processing in spectral range of 400 to 1800 nanometers. In addition to in-sensor computing, this retinomorphic device can implement in-memory computing benefiting from the nonvolatile tunable conductance, and a complete neuromorphic visual system involving front-end in-sensor computing and back-end in-memory computing architectures has been constructed, executing supervised and unsupervised learning tasks as demonstrations. This work paves the way for the development of high-speed and low-power neuromorphic machine vision for time-critical and data-intensive applications.
Microwave-assisted, performance-advantaged electrification of propane dehydrogenation
Authors: Kwak Yeonsu , Wang Cong , Kavale Chaitanya A. , Yu Kewei , Selvam Esun , Mallada Reyes , Santamaria Jesus , Julian Ignacio , Catala-Civera Jose M. , Goyal Himanshu , Zheng Weiqing , Vlachos Dionisios G.
Published: September 2023

Nonoxidative propane dehydrogenation (PDH) produces on-site propylene for value-added chemicals. While commercial, its modest selectivity and catalyst deactivation hamper the process efficiency and limit operation to lower temperatures. We demonstrate PDH in a microwave (MW)–heated reactor over PtSn/SiO
2
catalyst pellets loaded in a SiC monolith acting as MW susceptor and a heat distributor while ensuring comparable conditions with conventional reactors. Time-on-stream experiments show active and stable operation at 500°C without hydrogen addition. Upon increasing temperature or feed partial pressure at high space velocity, catalysts under MWs show resistance in coking and sintering, high activity, and selectivity, starkly contrasting conventional reactors whose catalyst undergoes deactivation. Mechanistic differences in coke formation are exposed. Gas-solid temperature gradients are computationally investigated, and nanoscale temperature inhomogeneities are proposed to rationalize the different performances of the heating modes. The approach highlights the great potential of electrification of endothermic catalytic reactions.
Lung tumor–infiltrating Treghave divergent transcriptional profiles and function linked to checkpoint blockade response
Authors: Dykema Arbor G. , Zhang Jiajia , Cheung Laurene S. , Connor Sydney , Zhang Boyang , Zeng Zhen , Cherry Christopher M. , Li Taibo , Caushi Justina X. , Nishimoto Marni , Munoz Andrew J. , Ji Zhicheng , Hou Wenpin , Zhan Wentao , Singh Dipika , Zhang Tianbei , Rashid Rufiaat , Mitchell-Flack Marisa , Bom Sadhana , Tam Ada , Ionta Nick , Aye Thet H. K. , Wang Yi , Sawosik Camille A. , Tirado Lauren E. , Tomasovic Luke M. , VanDyke Derek , Spangler Jamie B. , Anagnostou Valsamo , Yang Stephen , Spicer Jonathan , Rayes Roni , Taube Janis , Brahmer Julie R. , Forde Patrick M. , Yegnasubramanian Srinivasan , Ji Hongkai , Pardoll Drew M. , Smith Kellie N.
Published: September 2023

Regulatory T cells (Treg) are conventionally viewed as suppressors of endogenous and therapy-induced antitumor immunity; however, their role in modulating responses to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is unclear. In this study, we integrated single-cell RNA-seq/T cell receptor sequencing (TCRseq) of >73,000 tumor-infiltrating Treg(TIL-Treg) from anti–PD-1–treated and treatment-naive non–small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) with single-cell analysis of tumor-associated antigen (TAA)–specific Tregderived from a murine tumor model. We identified 10 subsets of human TIL-Treg, most of which have high concordance with murine TIL-Tregsubsets. Only one subset selectively expresses high levels ofTNFRSF4(OX40) andTNFRSF18(GITR), whose engangement by cognate ligand mediated proliferative programs and NF-κB activation, as well as multiple genes involved in Tregsuppression, includingLAG3. Functionally, the OX40hiGITRhisubset is the most highly suppressive ex vivo, and its higher representation among total TIL-Tregcorrelated with resistance to PD-1 blockade. Unexpectedly, in the murine tumor model, we found that virtually all TIL-Treg–expressing T cell receptors that are specific for TAA fully develop a distinct TH1-like signature over a 2-week period after entry into the tumor, down-regulatingFoxP3and up-regulating expression ofTBX21 (Tbet), IFNG, and certain proinflammatory granzymes. Transfer learning of a gene score from the murine TAA-specific TH1-like Tregsubset to the human single-cell dataset revealed a highly analogous subcluster that was enriched in anti–PD-1–responding tumors. These findings demonstrate that TIL-Tregpartition into multiple distinct transcriptionally defined subsets with potentially opposing effects on ICB-induced antitumor immunity and suggest that TAA-specific TIL-Tregmay positively contribute to antitumor responses.
Measuring undergraduates’ understanding of the culture of scientific research as an outcome variable in research on CUREs
Authors: Wachtell Lexi , Gardiner Amanda , Sievers Matt , Dickinson Katie , Dy Grace E. C. , Glenski Elizabeth H. , Mukerji Joya , Theobald Elli , Tran Elisa T. , Velasco Vicente , Freeman Scott
Published: September 2023

Researchers who work on course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) and issues related to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) retention have begun exploring changes in student thinking about what it means to be a scientist. To support this effort, we developed rubrics to score answers to three open-response prompts: What does it mean to think like a scientist? What does it mean to do science? and Did you do real research in your
coursename
labs? The rubric development process was iterative and was based on input from the literature, experienced researchers, and early-career undergraduates. A
post hoc
analysis showed that the rubric elements map to 27 of 31 statements in the Culture of Scientific Research (CSR) framework, suggesting that scored responses to the three prompts can assess how well students understand what being a science professional entails. Scores on responses from over 400 students who were starting an introductory biology course for majors furnish baseline data from the rubrics and suggest that (i) undergraduates at this level have, as expected, a novice-level understanding of CSR, and (ii) level of understanding in novice students does not vary as a function of demography or academic preparation. Researchers and instructors are encouraged to add CSR to their list of learning objectives for CUREs and consider assessing it using the rubrics provided here.
Draft whole-genome sequences of competitive exclusion
Ligilactobacillus salivarius
strains for poultry
Authors: Ma Li Maria , Lopez Nicolas , Zhang Guodong
Published: September 2023

Competitive exclusion (CE) bacteria have been used to control the colonization of chickens by major foodborne pathogens. In this article, we report draft whole-genome sequences of three
Ligilactobacillus salivarius
strains isolated from chicken gastrointestinal tracts and previously selected as CE for poultry. These genome sequences will provide a foundation for further characterization and understanding of their CE attributes.
Draft genome sequence of a
Fusobacterium nucleatum
strain isolated from a patient in Kazakhstan with colorectal cancer
Authors: Kulmambetova Gulmira , Utupov Talgat , Kurentay Botakoz , Auganova Dana , Tarlykov Pavel , Shevtsov Alexandr , Daniyarov Asset , Khamzina Saule , Mamlin Meiram , Kozhakhmetov Arman , Shalekenov Sanzhar
Published: September 2023

Fusobacterium nucleatum
is an invasive obligate anaerobe found in the oral microbiota and associated with colorectal cancer. Here, we announce the draft genome sequence of
Fusobacterium nucleatum
strain Fn11kaz from a patient with colorectal cancer in Kazakhstan.
Complete genome sequence of “
Candidatus
Phytoplasma cynodontis” GY2015, a plant pathogen associated with Bermuda grass white leaf disease in Taiwan
Authors: Cho Shu-Ting , Chen Ai-Ping , Chou Shu-Jen , Yan Xiao-Hua , Lin Chan-Pin , Kuo Chih-Horng
Published: September 2023

The complete genome sequence of “
Candidatus
Phytoplasma cynodontis” strain GY2015, which consists of one 498,922-bp circular chromosome, is presented in this work. This uncultivated plant-pathogenic bacterium is associated with Bermuda grass white leaf disease in Taoyuan, Taiwan.
A genome-wide association study reveals that epistasis underlies the pathogenicity of
Pectobacterium
Authors: Chen Changlong , Che Shu , Dong Zhou , Sui Jiayi , Tian Yu , Su Yanyan , Zhang Meng , Sun Wangwang , Fan Jiaqin , Xie Jianbo , Xie Hua
Published: September 2023

Pectobacterium
spp. are important bacterial pathogens that cause soft rot symptoms in various crops. However, their mechanism of pathogenicity requires clarity to help control their infections. Here, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were conducted by integrating genomic data and measurements of two phenotypes (virulence and cellulase activity) for 120 various
Pectobacterium
strains in order to identify the genetic basis of their pathogenicity. An artificial intelligence-based software program was developed to automatically measure lesion areas on Chinese cabbage, thereby facilitating accurate and rapid data collection for virulence phenotypes for use in GWAS analysis. The analysis discovered 428 and 158 loci significantly associated with
Pectobacterium
virulence (lesion area) and cellulase activity, respectively. In addition, 1,229 and 586 epistasis loci pairs were identified for the virulence and cellulase activity phenotypes, respectively. Among them, the AraC transcriptional regulator exerted epistasis effects with another three nutrient transport-related genes in pairs contributing to the virulence phenotype, and their epistatic effects were experimentally confirmed for one pair with knockout mutants of each single gene and double gene. This study consequently provides valuable insights into the genetic mechanism underlying
Pectobacterium
spp. pathogenicity.

Importance

Plant diseases and pests are responsible for the loss of up to 40% of food crops, and annual economic losses caused by plant diseases reach more than $220 billion. Fighting against plant diseases requires an understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of pathogens. This study adopted an advanced approach using population genomics integrated with virulence-related phenotype data to investigate the genetic basis of
Pectobacterium
spp., which causes serious crop losses worldwide. An automated software program based on artificial intelligence was developed to measure the virulence phenotype (lesion area), which greatly facilitated this research. The analysis predicted key genomic loci that were highly associated with virulence phenotypes, exhibited epistasis effects, and were further confirmed as critical for virulence with mutant gene deletion experiments. The present study provides new insights into the genetic determinants associated with
Pectobacterium
pathogenicity and provides a valuable new software resource that can be adapted to improve plant infection measurements.
Control of
Helicobacter pylori
with engineered probiotics secreting selective guided antimicrobial peptides
Authors: Choudhury Ankan , Ortiz Patrick S. , Young Mikaeel , Mahmud Md. Toslim , Stoffel Ryan T. , Greathouse K. Leigh , Kearney Christopher M.
Published: September 2023

Helicobacter pylori
is the primary cause of 78% of gastric cancer cases, providing an opportunity to prevent cancer by controlling a single bacterial pathogen within the complex gastric microbiota. We developed highly selective antimicrobial agents against
H. pylori
by fusing an
H. pylori
-binding guide peptide (MM1) to broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptides. The common dairy probiotic
Lactococcus lactis
was then engineered to secrete these guided antimicrobial peptides (gAMPs). When co-cultured
in vitro
with
H. pylori
, the gAMP probiotics lost no toxicity compared to unguided AMP probiotics against the target,
H. pylori
, while losing >90% of their toxicity against two tested off-target bacteria. To test binding to
H. pylori
, the MM1 guide was fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP), resulting in enhanced binding compared to unguided GFP as measured by flow cytometry. In contrast, MM1-GFP showed no increased binding over GFP against five different off-target bacteria. These highly selective gAMP probiotics were then tested by oral gavage in mice infected with
H. pylori
. As a therapy, the probiotics outperformed antibiotic treatment, effectively eliminating
H. pylori
in just 5 days, and also protected mice from challenge infection as a prophylactic. As expected, the gAMP probiotics were as toxic against
H. pylori
as the unguided AMP probiotics. However, a strong rebound in gastric species diversity was found with both the selective gAMP probiotics and the non-selective AMP probiotics. Eliminating the extreme microbial dysbiosis caused by
H. pylori
appeared to be the major factor in diversity recovery.

Importance

Alternatives to antibiotics in the control of
Helicobacter pylori
and the prevention of gastric cancer are needed. The high prevalence of
H. pylori
in the human population, the induction of microbial dysbiosis by antibiotics, and increasing antibiotic resistance call for a more sustainable approach. By selectively eliminating the pathogen and retaining the commensal community,
H. pylori
control may be achieved without adverse health outcomes. Antibiotics are typically used as a therapeutic post-infection, but a more targeted, less disruptive approach could be used as a long-term prophylactic against
H. pylori
or, by extension, against other gastrointestinal pathogens. Furthermore, the modular nature of the guided antimicrobial peptide (gAMP) technology allows for the substitution of different guides for different pathogens and the use of a cocktail of gAMPs to avoid the development of pathogen resistance.
Reconstructive cranial surgery for invasive and non-responsive mucormycosis
Authors: Dange Preetham , Hameed Nazrin , Sankar Ravi , Maurya Ved Prakash
Published: September 2023

The incidence of mucormycosis showed a sharp rise during the COVID-19 pandemic in vulnerable populations like people with diabetes. Here, we report a case of mucormycosis of the frontal and ethmoid sinuses in a man in his mid-50s with a background of diabetes mellitus and COVID-19 infection requiring steroids and oxygen support. The infection had remained persistent despite initial debridement by functional endoscopic sinus surgery of the anterior frontal sinus wall and re-exploration, followed by debridement using the brow incision. The patient had received an entire course of systemic antifungal therapy during the postoperative period. A bifrontal craniotomy, excision of the supraorbital ridge and complete removal of bilateral frontal sinuses managed the persistent fungal infection. The defect was reconstructed with a custom-made three-dimensional-printed MRI-compatible titanium cranioplasty mesh. The patient had no signs of infection on the 9-month follow-up.
Role of neurorehabilitation in the recovery of bilateral thalamic stroke related to the artery of Percheron anatomical variant
Authors: Polito Gaetano , Russo Mirella , Santilli Matteo , Cantarella Cristina , D'Aurizio Carlo , Sensi Stefano L
Published: September 2023

Bilateral thalamic stroke is a rare condition, mostly related to the presence of the artery of Percheron (AoP) variant. The clinical presentation of AoP-related strokes is remarkably heterogeneous and often includes cognitive and behavioural alterations. Our report describes the clinical course of an AoP-related bilateral thalamic stroke and highlights the pivotal role of a tailored rehabilitation programme plays in enhancing recovery. A man in his 40s was admitted to the neurology ward due to the abrupt onset of mental status alterations and weakness in his left limbs. The first brain CT scan and subsequent MRI exam revealed a bilateral thalamic stroke and the presence of an AoP anatomical variant. After the first critical phase, the patient’s condition became stable, but he still suffered from severe attention, memory and speech deficits. The patient was then transferred to the rehabilitation unit and was subjected to a tailored neurorehabilitation programme that allowed a complete recovery of the symptoms. Neurorehabilitation plays a pivotal role in the patient’s recovery and should always be pursued to minimise the residual deficits and, most importantly, to prevent permanent cognitive deficits.
Role of community-level emergency contraceptive pills awareness and possibilities of long-acting reversible or permanent methods in reducing unwanted births in Bangladesh: evidence from a nationwide cross-sectional survey
Authors: Rahman Md Mahabubur , Ferdous Zannatul , Ara Tasnim , Mahi Mahfuza , Haider M Moinuddin
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study aims to investigate the role of community-level emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) awareness in reducing unwanted births (UWBs) in Bangladesh and explore the regional variation in women’s appropriateness to adopt long-acting reversible contraceptives or permanent methods (LARCPMs) based on their child desire.

Design, settings and participants

We used data from the cross-sectional Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018. We analysed the planning status of the last live birth 3 years preceding the survey of 20,127 ever-married women of reproductive age.

Methods

Considering women were nested within clusters, a mixed-effect multiple logistic regression was implemented to investigate the association between community-level ECP awareness and UWB by controlling for the effects of contextual, individual, and household characteristics.

Results

Only 3.7% of women belonged to communities with high ECP awareness. At the national level, 2% of women had UWB. About 2.1% of women who resided in communities of low ECP awareness had UWB, while UWB was only 0.5% among women residing in high ECP awareness communities. The odds of UWB was 71% lower among women who resided in high ECP awareness communities than among those who resided in communities with low ECP awareness. However, community-level ECP awareness could not avert mistimed birth. Dhaka, Chattogram and Rangpur held the highest share of UWB. Fertility persisted for 89% of the women who wanted no more children. Among women who wanted no more children, 15% were not using any method, 13% used traditional family planning methods and only 13% adopted LARCPM. These women mostly resided in Dhaka, followed by Chattogram and Rajshahi.

Conclusion

This study highlights the significant positive role of ECP awareness in reducing UWB in Bangladesh. Findings may inform policies aimed at increasing LARCPM adoption, particularly among women residing in Dhaka and Chattogram who want no more children.
Rehabilitation interventions for oculomotor deficits in adults with mild traumatic brain injury: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Biscardi Melissa , Grossinger Zane , Colantonio Angela , Bayley Mark , Mollayeva Tatyana
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is the most common form of TBI with many individuals suffering from symptoms suggestive of deficits in oculomotor function. Although the symptoms are often experienced transiently, almost 50% of individuals will experience persistent symptoms. Oculomotor deficits can last months after injury and decrease function and the ability to participate in work, school and sport. To date, rehabilitation interventions targeting oculomotor deficits in mTBI have been reported on in several studies with varying study designs; however, the effectiveness of these interventions on measures of oculomotor function has not been established. The purpose of this paper is to present a protocol for a systematic review that aims to examine the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions for improving function in adults with oculomotor deficits after mTBI.

Methods and analysis

Systematic searches in Medline Ovid, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Scopus will be conducted to identify experimental studies published in English from each databases inception date to present, involving adult patients with mTBI and oculomotor deficits. Citations will be saved and managed in EndNote V.20. Two independent reviewers will identify eligible studies and perform data abstraction. Any discrepancies will be solved by discussion, and a third reviewer will be consulted if necessary. A meta-analysis will be conducted for outcomes reported in two or more studies. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol guidelines will be followed for reporting.

Ethics and dissemination

This study does not involve primary data collection; therefore, formal ethical approval by an institutional review board is not required. Final results will be disseminated through open-access peer-reviewed publications. Abstracts will be presented at suitable national and international conferences or workshops. Furthermore, important information will be shared with clinical authorities, clinicians and at affiliated research institution-based websites and relevant servers.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022352276.