bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personal and Workplace Characteristics as Predictors of Intent‐To‐Stay Among Registered Nurses: An Exploratory Quantitative Multicentre Study
Authors: Chua Ming Marcus , Ang Wei How Darryl , Siew An Ling , Chen Hui‐Chen
Published: September 2024

Aim

This study aims to describe and examine the factors associated with registered nurses' intent‐to‐stay and subsequently identify predictors of nurses' intent‐to‐stay.

Design

A quantitative, cross‐sectional correlational design was used.

Methods

A convenience sample of 270 registered nurses completed the questionnaire and was included in this study. Descriptive statistics were used to present the sociodemographic characteristics and scores of outcome measures. Pearson's correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression with backward selection were conducted to examine how nurses' characteristics and workplace factors influence nurses' intent‐to‐stay.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 29.2 years. The mean scores for the outcomes were intent‐to‐stay (mean = 2.96), resilience (mean = 3.34), occupational self‐efficacy (mean = 4.34), sleep quality (mean = 9.73) and workplace environment scores (mean = 3.15). The correlation analysis showed that resilience, occupational self‐efficacy, self‐realisation and workload were positively correlated to intent‐to‐stay while sleep quality was negatively correlated to intent‐to‐stay. Multiple linear regression analysis found occupational self‐efficacy, sleep quality, workload, nervousness, nurses' designation and specialisation status to be significant factors associated with intent‐to‐stay.

Conclusion

Intent‐to‐stay is a complex and multidimensional construct influenced by a variety of personal and workplace factors. Hospital administrators should endeavour to develop measures to improve occupational self‐efficacy, workload, nervousness and push for specialisation training to bolster nurses' intent‐to‐stay.

Impact

Against an everchanging healthcare landscape following the COVID‐19 pandemic, the findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors of registered nurses' intent‐to‐stay. The findings of this study alluded to the importance of professional development and workload as factors that can influence registered nurses' intent‐to‐stay. Hospital administrators can prioritise workforce retention policies by introducing strategies such as opportunities for upskilling, flexible working hours and streamlining work processes to promote nurses' intent‐to‐stay.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Identification of Major Locus Conferring Resistance to Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Disease in Black Gram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]
Authors: Palanivelu Sathya , Narayana Manivannan , Palaniappan Viswanathan
Published: September 2024

Urdbean leaf crinkle disease (ULCD) is a major factor causing severe yield loss in black gram production. The identification of quantitative trait loci (QTL) linked to ULCD resistance is highly useful in breeding programmes. A mapping population was developed from a cross between the resistant parent CO 5 and the susceptible parent TU 68. ULCD screening was carried out through the artificial sap inoculation method. In the F2:3 population, the ULCD score was assessed 60 days after infection. Composite interval mapping was carried out with a 1000‐run permutation. Another mapping population, VBN(Bg) 4 × CO 5 in F2:3 generation was used to validate the identified QTL. A single locus, qULCD3.1 was identified in linkage group 3. It explains 17.98% of the variation in ULCD resistance. Markers VR086 and CEDG 305 flanked the QTL region. The marker CEDG 305 explains 20.5% of the phenotypic variation for ULCD resistance in the validation population VBN(Bg) 4 × CO 5. This is the first report to identify a QTL for ULCD disease resistance. The identified markers can be used to incorporate ULCD resistance in black gram through marker‐assisted selection.
Temporal progression of sleep electroencephalography features in isolated rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder
Authors: Angerbauer Raphael , Stefani Ambra , Zitser Jennifer , Ibrahim Abubaker , Anselmi Victoria , Süzgün Merve Aktan , Egger Kristin , Brandauer Elisabeth , Högl Birgit , Cesari Matteo
Published: September 2024

Previous studies indicated that patients with isolated rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behaviour disorder (iRBD) exhibit alterations in spectral electroencephalographic (EEG), spindle, and slow‐wave features. As it is currently unknown how these EEG features evolve over time, this study aimed to evaluate their temporal progression in patients with iRBD in comparison to controls. We included 23 patients with iRBD and 23 controls. Two polysomnographies (baseline and follow‐up) were recorded with a mean (standard deviation) interval of 4.0 (2.5) years and were automatically analysed for sleep stages, spectral bandpower, spindles, and slow waves. We used linear models to evaluate differences at each time point, and linear mixed‐effects models to analyse differences in temporal progression between the groups. At baseline, patients with iRBD presented EEG slowing both in REM (expressed as significantly reduced α‐bandpower and increased δ‐bandpower in frontal channels) and in non‐REM (NREM) sleep (significantly increased slow‐to‐fast ratio in central channels). These differences vanished at follow‐up. In both REM and NREM sleep, γ‐bandpower was increased at follow‐up in patients with iRBD, resulting in significantly different temporal progression between groups (in occipital channels during REM sleep and frontal channels during NREM sleep). Relative power of sleep spindles was significantly higher at baseline in patients with iRBD in frontal channels, but we observed a significant reduction over time in central channels. Finally, slow waves were significantly shorter in patients with iRBD at both time‐points. Our results underscore the need of considering longitudinal data when analysing sleep EEG features in patients with iRBD. The observed temporal changes as markers of progression of neurodegeneration require further investigations.
Association between lung function and sleep disorder symptoms in a community‐based multi‐site case‐finding study
Authors: Mazzola Rosetta , Aaron Shawn D. , Vandemheen Katherine L. , Mulpuru Sunita , Bergeron Celine , Lemière Catherine , Côté Andréanne , Boulet Louis‐Philippe , Field Stephen K. , Penz Erika , McIvor R. Andrew , Gupta Samir , Mayers Irvin , Bhutani Mohit , Hernandez Paul , Lougheed M. Diane , Licskai Christopher J. , Azher Tanweer , Ezer Nicole , Ainslie Martha , Kendzerska Tetyana
Published: September 2024

Obstructive airway disease is associated with sleep disturbances. We aimed to assess the relationship between lung function and sleep disorder symptoms using cross‐sectionally collected data between March 2017 and August 2021 from the Undiagnosed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma Population study, a prospective community‐based multi‐site case‐finding study. Undiagnosed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma Population study participants with respiratory symptoms but without diagnosed lung disease who completed spirometry and the Global Sleep Assessment Questionnaire were included. We conducted multivariate linear regression models for forced expiratory volume in 1 s, forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity by Global Sleep Assessment Questionnaire responses adjusted for confounders. The same models were employed to examine respiratory symptoms, as reported on the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Assessment Test, by Global Sleep Assessment Questionnaire responses. Logistic regression models were used to assess the association of undiagnosed obstructive airway disease with sleep symptoms. Amongst 2093 adults included in the study, 48.3% were female and the median age was 63 years (interquartile range 53–72). Two‐hundred and five (9.79%) subjects met spirometry criteria for undiagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and 191 (9.13%) for undiagnosed asthma. There were no significant associations between spirometry measures and sleep symptoms (p > 0.5), controlling for age, sex, body mass index, smoking and comorbidities. Those with undiagnosed asthma were more likely to report insomnia “at least sometimes” versus “never” (odds ratio 2.58, 95% confidence interval: 1.27–6.19, p = 0.02). Respiratory symptoms were associated with sleep symptoms, with significant (p < 0.05) increases in St George's Respiratory Questionnaire and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Assessment Test scores in those reporting most sleep symptoms. Overall, we found an association between undiagnosed asthma and insomnia, and between respiratory and sleep disorder symptoms.
PDE9A Inhibition Improves Coronary Microvascular Rarefaction and Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in the ZSF1 Rat Model of HFpEF
Authors: Fopiano Katie Anne , Zhazykbayeva Saltanat , El‐Battrawy Ibrahim , Buncha Vadym , Pearson William M. , Hardell Davis J. , Lang Liwei , Hamdani Nazha , Bagi Zsolt
Published: September 2024

Objective

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) commonly arises from comorbid diseases, such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. Selective inhibition of phosphodiesterase 9A (PDE9A) has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach for treating cardiometabolic diseases. Coronary microvascular disease (CMD) is one of the key mechanisms contributing to the development of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction in HFpEF. Our study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which PDE9A inhibition could ameliorate CMD and improve LV diastolic function in HFpEF.

Methods and Results

The obese diabetic Zucker fatty/spontaneously hypertensive heart failure F1 hybrid (ZSF1) rat model of HFpEF was employed in which it was found that a progressively developing coronary microvascular rarefaction is associated with LV diastolic dysfunction when compared to lean, nondiabetic hypertensive controls. Obese ZSF1 rats had an increased cardiac expression of PDE9A. Treatment of obese ZSF1 rats with the selective PDE9A inhibitor, PF04447943 (3 mg/kg/day, oral gavage for 2 weeks), improved coronary microvascular rarefaction and LV diastolic dysfunction, which was accompanied by reduced levels of oxidative and nitrosative stress markers, hydrogen peroxide, and 3‐nitrotyrosine. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) proteomic analysis identified peroxiredoxins (PRDX) as downregulated antioxidants in the heart of obese ZSF1 rats, whereas Western immunoblots showed that the protein level of PRDX5 was significantly increased by the PF04447943 treatment.

Conclusions

Thus, in the ZSF1 rat model of human HFpEF, PDE9A inhibition improves coronary vascular rarefaction and LV diastolic dysfunction, demonstrating the usefulness of PDE9A inhibitors in ameliorating CMD and LV diastolic dysfunction through augmenting PRDX‐dependent antioxidant mechanisms.
Understanding Global Access to Topical Onychomycosis Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Nasereddin S. M. , Li J. L. , Malallah O. S. , McClelland G. R. , Morgan D. , Meadowcroft S. , Bolhuis A. , Jones S. A.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Equal access to medicines is crucial to ensuring public health, but access is difficult to measure, especially for infections where changes in infective species make treatment choices highly dynamic. This study investigated if the combination of infection prevalence with medicine efficacy and regulatory availability could access medicines access of topical onychomycosis medicines.

Methods

Two databases, PubMed and Web of Science, were used to identify relevant information published between 1990 and 2019. For the meta‐analysis, human onychomycosis investigations using PCR analysis were included. Reviewers independently selected eligible articles, extracted data and assessed the study quality. A random‐effects meta‐analysis model with a Freeman–Tukey transformation was employed to the PCR data. For the meta‐analysis, the global infection trends and regional differences in the infective organisms were determined.

Results

Of the 26 studies analysed, the PCR analysis in 18 studies confirmed onychomycosis in about half of the visually suspected cases (55%, CI 43%–67%). Across all 26 studies dermatophytes were the most prevalent infective organism (57%, CI 37%–76%), but a sub‐group analysis showed yeasts predominated in females (31%, CI 0%–84%) (p < 0.0001), in fingernail infections (42%, CI 21%–65%) (p < 0.0001) and in arid countries (p < 0.0001). Combining these results with medicine efficacy data showed that residents from 83 of the 92 countries assessed (90%) could not access the most efficacious topical product, and 22% could not access any broad‐spectrum agents. Countries in Africa had the poorest access to topical onychomycosis medicines.

Conclusion

This study identified that access to effective topical products for onychomycosis is a global problem. This issue appeared to be due to under‐representation of candida infections in pivotal clinical studies of topical onychomycosis products. A head‐to‐head multicentre study for topical efinaconazole or a novel broad spectrum topical agent is needed to help resolve these access problems.

Protocol Registration

PROSPERO—CRD42023464744
Diet and health inequalities: Connecting with vulnerable groups to address food insecurity—the DIO food project
Authors: Crabtree Daniel R. , Hunter Emma , Jenneson Victoria , Fildes Alison , Kininmonth Alice , Pontin Francesca , Ennis Emily , Lonnie Marta , Skeggs Hannah , McHugh Lizzy , Morris Michelle A. , Douglas Flora , Johnstone Alexandra M. ,   the DIO Food team
Published: September 2024

The current cost‐of‐living crisis is disproportionately affecting families experiencing poverty and is likely to be amplifying existing dietary inequalities and challenges, such as food insecurity (FI). Government policies designed to address diet inequality in the UK have historically had minimal impact on population diet and health and may have even widened existing inequalities. Therefore, the effect of nutrition policies on those experiencing FI in the context of the current cost‐of‐living crisis needs to be better understood. The aim of the Diet and Health Inequalities (DIO Food) project is to work with early years, people living on a low income and retailers to generate opportune evidence‐based research and commentary that will inform diet‐related health inequalities policy and practice. DIO Food is related to the existing Food Insecurity in people living with Obesity (FIO Food) project, which consists of four interlinked work packages (WPs1‐4). DIO Food consists of three interlinked work packages (WPs5‐7), which enhance the scope of FIO Food, and are described in this article. WP5 addresses a paucity of research on maternal and infant food insecurity in the UK, by applying a qualitative research approach to capture parents' and carers' perceptions of the relationship between the food system and other influences impacting infant feeding practice, associated with the cost‐of‐living crisis. WP6 will conduct the first‐ever cross‐retailer independent evaluation of England's high fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) product placement legislation. Researchers will analyse store‐level supermarket sales data provided by large UK retailers to produce sector‐level insights into whether HFSS legislation reduced HFSS purchasing, improved the healthiness of retailer product portfolios, and was equitable across areas with different characteristics. WP7 will support WP5 and 6, by strengthening engagement with key stakeholders, including at‐risk consumers and representatives of major supermarkets, and effectively translating research outcomes and stakeholder perspectives for policy and industry decision‐makers.
Euonymus fangdingianus (Celastraceae), a new cauliflorous species from southwestern China and northern Vietnam
Authors: Li Xiong , Wang Shuang‐Ling , Wu Wang‐Hui , Li Man , Qin Yong‐Hua , Peng Ding‐Ren , Luo Kai‐Wen
Published: September 2024

Euonymus fangdingianus, a new species from southwestern China and northern Vietnam, is described and illustrated. This species differs from its congeners mainly in having large and thick leaf blade, abaxially black‐punctate blade, impressed and abaxially prominent veins, cauliflorous inflorescences, 5‐merous dark purple flowers, and obovoid capsules with angles and grooves. A photograph image and conservation assessment for the new species are provided. In addition, the cauliflory in E. fangdingianus, an unusual flowering pattern in Euonymus, is preliminarily described.
Effects of Tactile Massage in Improving Older Residents' Psychological Health in Long‐Term Care Facilities: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Huang Pi‐Hua , Chien Wan‐Pin , Lin Ya‐Chun , Chung Min‐Huey , Lin Pi‐Chu , Lin Yueh‐Kuei , Chuang Yeu‐Hui
Published: September 2024

Background

Loneliness, anxiety and depressive symptoms are common among older residents in long‐term care facilities (LTCFs), which can negatively impact their quality of life and increase mortality rates. Addressing these psychological health issues is an important task for nursing staff. There is a need for easy and accessible interventions to improve older residents' negative emotions. Tactile massage (TM) is a form of touch therapy that induces oxytocin, which can help individuals feel relaxed, experience pleasure and reduce anxiety. TM can also provide a sense of security and care for individuals.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of TM in improving older residents' psychological health in LTCFs.

Design

In this study, we applied a two‐arm randomised controlled trial research design.

Methods

We used convenience sampling to enrol 55 older residents in three long‐term care facilities who were randomly assigned to an intervention group and a comparison group. The intervention group received TM by research assistants on both hands for 15 min per time, twice a week for 4 weeks and the comparison group received regular care. Data were collected before and after the intervention. Generalised estimating equations (GEEs) were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention.

Results

There were no significant differences in loneliness, anxiety, depressive symptoms, happiness, ear temperature, heart rate or diastolic blood pressure between the two groups after the intervention. However, the intervention group had significant improvements in comfort (B = 0.86, p < 0.001), relaxation (B = 1.00, p < 0.001), respiratory rate (B = −0.16, p = 0.021) and systolic blood pressure (B = − 4.17, p = 0.002) compared to the control group.

Conclusions

TM can help older residents who live in LTCFs feel relaxed and comfortable.

Implications for Practice

TM can be easily implemented as it requires no tools. We recommend that nursing staff and healthcare professionals incorporate TM as part of their care routines. They also can encourage family members to perform TM on residents during their visits to enhance residents' comfort and relaxation.

Reporting Method

The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) checklist was used for this paper.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05052138)
Impact of public health and patient‐centered prevention strategies on periodontitis and caries as causes of tooth loss in high‐income countries
Authors: Kocher Thomas , Meisel Peter , Baumeister Sebastian , Holtfreter Birte
Published: September 2024

In high‐income countries, the oral health of the population is influenced by public health interventions, widespread use of oral care products, dental practice measures, and the cost of dental treatment. We compiled information on changes of the prevalence of proximal and upstream determinants of periodontitis, caries, and tooth loss over the last three decades to outline their potential effects on changes of oral health during this period. Information was retrieved from repeated cross‐sectional studies and from published literature. While both the prevalence of edentulism and the number of missing teeth (from the DMF‐T index) decreased, the number of sound teeth as well as the total number of teeth increased. The prevalence of severe periodontitis was unchanged, whereas the prevalence of periodontal health and moderate periodontitis may have increased to a minor extent. Concerning oral health risk factors, the proportion of individuals with tertiary education increased, while smoking prevalence declined. More and more people used oral care products. Whether one reimbursement system worked better than another one in terms of tooth retention could not be elucidated. In tooth retention, population‐wide use of fluoridated toothpastes had the greatest impact. To some extent, the higher number of teeth present may be related to the more frequent use of interdental cleaning aids and powered toothbrushes. Since there was no decrease in severe periodontitis in most cohorts, periodontal interventions probably contributed little to improved tooth retention.
‘Less Money, Less Time, More Complex Clients’: The Impacts of Short‐Term Funding for Third Sector Employability Programmes and Potential for Moral Distress
Authors: Irvine Annie , McKenzie Joe , Sullivan Sybille , Kelley Alex
Published: September 2024

Within the United Kingdom, the third sector has an important yet increasingly challenging role in providing employability support for people with complex barriers to work, as organisations face an ever‐tighter and more uncertain funding landscape. Whilst the obstacles posed by short‐term funding are raised in numerous publications from third sector professional and campaigning organisations, academic contributions on the effects of short‐term funding for the third sector remain scarce. This article presents a qualitative analysis of the impacts of short‐term programme funding on a third sector employability project in the North of England, as it navigated the post‐Brexit transition from European grants to regionally allocated shorter‐term funding under the first tranche of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Drawing on in‐depth interviews with frontline employability keyworkers, the article illuminates the multiple detrimental effects on project delivery, keyworker practices and client experience brought about by a reduction in funding timeframe and associated future uncertainties. Alongside practical implications, the study offers novel insights into the emotional impacts of short‐termism on those delivering at the frontline, which we interpret via the theoretical lens of ‘moral distress’. Findings also reveal a risk that, under tighter operating timescales, third sector organisations may feel increasingly pushed towards the selective recruitment of participants who are easier to help, potentially undermining their deeply held commitment to supporting those furthest from the labour market.
Evolutionary biogeography and diversification of Ampithoidae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) in the southwestern Atlantic
Authors: Iwasa‐Arai Tammy , Siqueira Silvana G. L. , Andrade Sónia C. S. , Leite Fosca P. P.
Published: September 2024

The crustacean family Ampithoidae is one of the most abundant invertebrate families associated with macroalgae in shallow marine waters. Ampithoe, the largest genus, was previously documented as non‐monophyletic by phylogenetic analyses based on morphological and molecular characters. Here, we reconstructed a multi‐gene phylogeny of Ampithoidae with the first data of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. We performed the first biogeographic analyses for the family, which indicated its origin in the Indo‐West Pacific, with subsequent dispersion to the Atlantic Ocean around the Eocene. Divergence times suggest that the diversification of Ampithoidae is congruent with the brown algae crown radiation, which allowed the colonization of new environments.
Harmonic Riemannian submersions between Riemannian symmetric spaces of noncompact type
Authors: Burstall F. E.
Published: September 2024

We construct harmonic Riemannian submersions that are retractions from symmetric spaces of noncompact type onto their rank‐one totally geodesic subspaces. Among the consequences, we prove the existence of a nonconstant, globally defined complex‐valued harmonic morphism from the Riemannian symmetric space associated to a split real semisimple Lie group. This completes an affirmative proof of a conjecture of Gudmundsson.
Effects of altitude and exercise intensity on cardiac function in rats
Authors: Zhu Minxia , Li Xiaofeng , Liu Bing , Guo Jing , Xiao Yuanyuan , Liu Zhiyao , Duan Mengru , Liu Yi
Published: September 2024

High‐altitude exercise affects cardiac function. This study investigated how altitude and exercise intensity interacted to affect cardiac function of Sprague‐Dawley rats. Four altitudes (410, 3600, 4600 and 5600 m) and three exercise intensities (non‐exercise (N), low‐intensity exercise (L) and high‐intensity exercise (H)) were tested combinatorically. After 4 weeks of exercise, cardiac function and specific markers of myocardial injury were assessed. With regard to cardiac function, (a) at the same intensity, stroke volume and left ventricular end‐diastolic volume were higher in the 3600 m group but lower in the 4600 and 5600 m groups; and (b) the heart rate increased with altitude and intensity. The biochemical results showed that the levels of creatine kinase, myoglobin and cardiac troponin I generally increased with increasing altitude and exercise intensity, significantly for creatine kinase and myoglobin at 4600 and 5600 m. For pathological results, (a) in the non‐exercise group, pathological damage was observed only in the 5600 N group; and (b) in the exercised state, varying degrees of injury were noted, except for the 410 and 3600 L groups. There may be a turning point at 3600 m where the injury to the heart increases. Myocardial injury markers exhibited abnormalities before cardiac dysfunction. Detecting these markers is crucial to provide warnings for the individual from cardiac disease during high‐altitude exercise.
The upregulation of K+ and HCN channels in developing spiral ganglion neurons is mediated by cochlear inner hair cells
Authors: Conrad Linus J. , Grandi Fiorella C. , Carlton Adam J. , Jeng Jing‐Yi , de Tomasi Lara , Zarecki Patryk , Marcotti Walter , Johnson Stuart L. , Mustapha Mirna
Published: September 2024

Spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) are primary sensory afferent neurons that relay acoustic information from the cochlear inner hair cells (IHCs) to the brainstem. The response properties of different SGNs diverge to represent a wide range of sound intensities in an action‐potential code. This biophysical heterogeneity is established during pre‐hearing stages of development, a time when IHCs fire spontaneous Ca2+ action potentials that drive glutamate release from their ribbon synapses onto the SGN terminals. The role of spontaneous IHC activity in the refinement of SGN characteristics is still largely unknown. Using pre‐hearing otoferlin knockout mice (Otof−/−), in which Ca2+‐dependent exocytosis in IHCs is abolished, we found that developing SGNs fail to upregulate low‐voltage‐activated K+‐channels and hyperpolarisation‐activated cyclic‐nucleotide‐gated channels. This delayed maturation resulted in hyperexcitable SGNs with immature firing characteristics. We have also shown that SGNs that synapse with the pillar side of the IHCs selectively express a resurgent K+ current, highlighting a novel biophysical marker for these neurons. RNA‐sequencing showed that several K+ channels are downregulated in Otof−/− mice, further supporting the electrophysiological recordings. Our data demonstrate that spontaneous Ca2+‐dependent activity in pre‐hearing IHCs regulates some of the key biophysical and molecular features of the developing SGNs.

image

Key points

Ca2+‐dependent exocytosis in inner hair cells (IHCs) is otoferlin‐dependent as early as postnatal day 1.

A lack of otoferlin in IHCs affects potassium channel expression in SGNs.

The absence of otoferlin is associated with SGN hyperexcitability.

We propose that type I spiral ganglion neuron functional maturation depends on IHC exocytosis.
Numerical Investigation of Two-Phase n-Decane/Air Rotating Detonation Engines With Different Numbers of Fuel Orifices
Authors: Shao Xiaofeng , Zhao Ningbo , Zhang Wei , Zheng Hongtao
Published: September 2024

In this study, n-decane/air two-phase rotating detonation is numerically investigated based on Eulerian–Lagrangian method. Three-dimensional rotating detonation chamber (RDC) with various numbers of fuel orifices (30, 45, 60, and 90) is considered. The effects of numbers of fuel orifices on the fuel-mixing characteristics, the flow field structures, and the propagation characteristics of the rotating detonation wave (RDW) are analyzed. The results show that the liquid fuel mixing is influenced by the fuel jets and the incoming air shear. The former mainly affects the mixing uniformity, while the latter has a great influence on the Sauter mean diameter. Specifically, increasing the numbers of fuel orifices improves the mixing uniformity but slightly rises the Sauter mean diameter. Besides, the number of fuel orifices has a significant impact on the propagation mode of RDW. Single-wave mode is established in RDC except for the 30 orifices. Furthermore, a dimensionless kinematic parameter (α) is used to represent the fuel reactivity and predict the propagation mode of RDW. Moreover, the propagation parameters of RDW vary greatly with different numbers of fuel orifices. As the number of orifices increased, the formation time to stable operation of RDW decreases. The research results can provide guidance for the design of two-phase rotating detonation engine (RDE).
Experimental Demonstration of a High-Power Density Electric Generator
Authors: Gore Matt , Nonavinakere Vinod Kaushik , Fang Tiegang
Published: September 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid powertrain vehicles are an increasingly common alternative to pure gasoline vehicles. However, most have significantly shorter drivable ranges than combustion engine vehicles, require a long waiting period to recharge, have a low specific power, or are prohibitively expensive and heavy. The goal of this work is to develop and showcase a high-power density generator, which may be used as a component in an EV or hybrid drivetrain. The generator can be used as, for example, a range extender for an EV, or a generator for hybrid powertrains where specific power is important, such as in unmanned aerial vehicles, marine applications, motorcycles, and all terrain vehicles. Moreover, the generator of this work is constructed from commercially available components configured to be easily transportable and remain substantially lightweight. The device discussed in this work comprises a two-stroke single-cylinder gasoline engine and a compact permanent magnet brushless dynamo, assembled as a generator. The advantages of this combination include compactness, simplicity, lower weight, and high specific power. This paper discusses the design and experimental development of such a portable high-power-density power generator. The performance and emissions characteristics of the generator are investigated at varying loads and engine speed. During preliminary experiments, the power generator produced 8.5 kW while having a dry weight of 21 kg. Future design recommendations for the use of alternative or renewable fuels are also explored.
Dynamic Performance Analysis of a Turbocharged PEMFC System
Authors: Mantelli Luca , Iester Federico , Crosa Silvia , Bozzolo Michele , Magistri Loredana , Massardo Aristide
Published: September 2024

Proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) systems are one of the most promising technologies for the decarbonization of the transportation and power sectors. This article investigates the dynamics of an innovative turbocharged PEMFC system. A detailed dynamic model of the turbocharger-proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (TC-PEMFC) is developed in Matlab-Simulink. This model is used to study the dynamic performance of the system, considering the fluid-dynamic and thermal transients of its components. At first, the model is used to simulate the response of the TC-PEMFC to step changes of multiple input variables: openings of fuel valve and humidifier bypass valve, rotational speeds of turbocharger (TC), blower, and cooling pump. These simulations highlight the strong sensitivity of the system to the fuel valve opening, making the need for a feedback controller clear. Many control logics are then implemented on the model to keep the operative parameters of the TC-PEMFC within an acceptable range. The dynamic model is used to simulate the performance of the TC-PEMFC system during different power load ramps. From the results of these simulations, it is possible to assess the effectiveness of each controller and to verify the compliance of all the system constraints. During load increases, proper operation of the system is always guaranteed, whereas load reductions are limited by the possibility of compressor surge (35 A/s of maximum ramp rate). To overcome this limit, a possible modification to the control logics is tested in the final part of the study.
Inferring Flame Transfer Functions of Turbulent Conical Flames From Pressure Measurements
Authors: Yoko Matthew , Juniper Matthew P.
Published: September 2024

We use approximate Bayesian inference, accelerated by adjoint methods, to construct a quantitatively accurate model of the thermoacoustic behavior of a weakly turbulent conical flame in a duct. We first perform a series of automated experiments to generate a dataset. The data consist of time-series pressure measurements from which we extract (i) the eigenvalue, whose real part is the growth rate and imaginary part is the angular frequency, and (ii) the pressure eigenmode measured at several axial locations. We assimilate the data into a thermoacoustic network model to infer the unknown model parameters. We begin this process by rigorously characterizing the acoustics of the cold rig. We then introduce a series of different flames and infer their flame transfer functions (FTF) with quantified uncertainty bounds. The flame transfer function is obtained with the flames in situ, so it accounts for any confinement or heat loss effects. The inference process uses only pressure measurements, so the technique is suitable for complex combustors where optical access is not available, provided the eigenvalue or eigenmode of oscillations can be measured. We validate the method by comparing the inferred fluctuating heat release rate (HRR) against direct measurements. We find that the inferred quantities compare well with the direct measurements, but the uncertainty bounds can be large if the experimental error is large.
Sound field reconstruction using a compact acoustics-informed neural network
Authors: Ma Fei , Zhao Sipei , Burnett Ian S.
Published: September 2024

Sound field reconstruction (SFR) augments the information of a sound field captured by a microphone array. Using basis function decomposition, conventional SFR methods are straightforward and computationally efficient but may require more microphones than needed to measure the sound field. Recent studies show that pure data-driven and learning-based methods are promising in some SFR tasks, but they are usually computationally heavy and may fail to reconstruct a physically valid sound field. This paper proposes a compact acoustics-informed neural network (AINN) method for SFR, whereby the Helmholtz equation is exploited to regularize the neural network. As opposed to pure data-driven approaches that solely rely on measured sound pressures, the integration of the Helmholtz equation improves robustness of the neural network against variations during the measurement processes and prompts the generation of physically valid reconstructions. The AINN is designed to be compact and able to predict not only the sound pressures but also sound pressure gradients within a spatial region of interest based on measured sound pressures along the boundary. Experiments with acoustic transfer functions measured in different environments demonstrate the superiority of the AINN method over the traditional cylindrical harmonics and singular value decomposition methods.
Genetic excision of the regulatory cardiac troponin I extension in high–heart rate mammal clades
Authors: Joyce William , He Kai , Zhang Mengdie , Ogunsola Samuel , Wu Xini , Joseph Kelvin T. , Bogomolny David , Yu Wenhua , Springer Mark S. , Xie Jiuyong , Signore Anthony V. , Campbell Kevin L.
Published: September 2024

Mammalian cardiac troponin I (cTnI) contains a highly conserved amino-terminal extension harboring protein kinase A targets [serine-23 and -24 (Ser
23/24
)] that are phosphorylated during β-adrenergic stimulation to defend diastolic filling by means of an increased cardiomyocyte relaxation rate. In this work, we show that the Ser
23/24
-encoding exon 3 of
TNNI3
was pseudoexonized multiple times in shrews and moles to mimic Ser
23/24
phosphorylation without adrenergic stimulation, facilitating the evolution of exceptionally high resting heart rates (~1000 beats per minute). We further reveal alternative exon 3 splicing in distantly related bat families and confirm that both cTnI splice variants are incorporated into cardiac myofibrils. Because exon 3 of human
TNNI3
exhibits a relatively low splice strength score, our findings offer an evolutionarily informed strategy to excise this exon to improve diastolic function during heart failure.
3775-year-old wood burial supports “wood vaulting” as a durable carbon removal method
Authors: Zeng Ning , Zhao Xinpeng , Poisson Ghislain , Clifford Bryson , Liu Yu , Liu He , Meng Taotao , Picard Laura , Zeng-Mariotti Elisa , Zaitchik Ben , Hu Liangbing
Published: September 2024

Six-times more carbon dioxide (CO
2
) is removed each year by terrestrial photosynthesis than fossil fuel emissions. However, the carbon is mostly returned to the atmosphere by decomposition. We found a 3775-year-old ancient wood log buried 2 meters belowground that was preserved far beyond its expected lifetime. The wood had near-perfect preservation, with carbon loss less than 5% compared to a modern sample. The lack of decay is likely due to the low permeability of the compact clay soil at the burial site. Our observation suggests a hybrid nature-engineering approach for carbon removal by burying woody biomass in similar anoxic environments. We estimate a global sequestration potential of up to 10 gigatonnes CO
2
per year with existing technology at a low cost of $30 to $100 per tonne after optimization.
Responses of microbial community composition and CAZymes encoding gene enrichment in ensiled
Elymus nutans
to altitudinal gradients in alpine region
Authors: Li Fuhou , Jia Mengya , Chen Hu , Chen Mengyan , Su Rina , Usman Samaila , Ding Zitong , Hao Lizhuang , Franco Marcia , Guo Xusheng
Published: September 2024

High-throughput metagenomic sequence technology was employed to evaluate changes in microbial community composition and carbohydrate-active enzymes encoding gene enrichment status in
Elymus nutans
silages to altitudinal gradients in the world’s highest alpine region of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP).
E. nutans
were collected from three different altitudes in QTP: 2,600 m (low altitude), 3600 m (moderate altitude), and 4,600 m [high (H) altitude], and ensiled for 7, 14, 30, and 60 d. Results indicated an improvement in silage quality with the increasing altitude, although the acetic acid concentration and dry matter loss were greater in H altitude silages after 30 d of ensiling. Harmful bacteria or potential pathogens predominated in the microbial community on d 7 and 14 of fermentation, while genera belonging to lactic acid bacteria gradually became the main microorganisms with the increasing altitude on d 30 and 60 of ensiling. The abundance of carbohydrate-active enzymes genes responsible for macromolecular carbohydrate degradation in silage increased with increasing altitude, and those genes were mainly carried by
Lactiplantibacillus
and
Pediococcus
at 30 and 60 d of ensiling. The abundance of key enzymatic genes associated with glycolysis and organic acid production in carbohydrate metabolism pathway was higher in H altitude silages, and
Lactiplantibacillus
and
Pediococcus
were also the main hosts after 30 d of silage fermentation, except for the fact that acetic acid production was also related to genera
Leuconostoc
,
Latilactobacillus
, and
Levilactobacillus
.

IMPORTANCE

The fermentation quality of
Elymus nutans
silage was getting better with the increase of altitude in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. The abundance of hosts carrying carbohydrate-active enzymes genes and key enzyme genes related to organic acid production increased with increasing altitude during the later stages of fermentation.
Lactiplantibacillus
and
Pediococcus
were the core microorganisms responsible for both polysaccharide hydrolysis and silage fermentation in the late stage of ensiling. This study provided insights on the influence of different altitudes on the composition and function of silage microbiome in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, and provided a reference approach for improving the quality and controllability of silage production in high altitude areas of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.
Stearoyl coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1) regulates foot-and-mouth disease virus replication by modulating host cell lipid metabolism and viral protein 2C-mediated replication complex formation
Authors: Lv Bonan , Yuan Yuncong , Yang Zhuang , Wang Xingran , Hu Jianjun , Sun Yidan , Du Hang , Liu Xuemei , Duan Huimin , Ding Ruyi , Pan Zishu , Tang Xiao-Feng , Shen Chao
Published: September 2024

The life cycle of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is tightly regulated by host cell lipid metabolism. In previous studies, we reported downregulated expression of stearoyl coenzyme A desaturase-1 (SCD1), a key enzyme of fatty acid metabolism, in BHK-VEC cells (a virus-negative cell line derived from BKH-21 cells with persistent FMDV infection) on comparing transcriptomic data for BHK-VEC and BHK-21 cells (Y. Yuan et al., Front Cell Infect Microbiol 12:940906, 2022,
https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2022.940906
; L. Han et al., Vet Microbiol 263:109247, 2021,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vetmic.2021.109247
). In the present study, we identify that SCD1 regulates FMDV replication. SCD1 overexpression or exogenous addition of oleic acid (OA), a product of the enzymatic activity of SCD1, increased FMDV replication in both BHK-21 cells and SCD1-knockdown cells. Overexpression of SCD1 or exogenous addition of OA restored FMDV infection and replication in BHK-VEC cells, and OA also promoted FMDV replication in BHK-21 cells with persistent FMDV infection. SCD1 recruited the nonstructural FMDV protein 2C to a detergent-resistant membrane located in the perinuclear region of cells to form replication complexes. Inhibiting SCD1 enzyme activity resulted in a significantly decreased number of FMDV replication complexes with abnormal morphology. Inhibition of SCD1 activity also effectively decreased the replication of other RNA viruses such as respiratory enteric orphan virus-3-176, poliovirus-1, enterovirus 71, and vesicular stomatitis virus. Our results demonstrate that SCD1, as a key host regulator of RNA virus replication, is a potential target for developing novel drugs against infections by RNA viruses.

IMPORTANCE

Many positive-stranded RNA viruses, including foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), alter host membranes and lipid metabolism to create a suitable microenvironment for their survival and replication within host cells. In FMDV-infected cells, the endoplasmic reticulum membrane is remodeled, forming vesicular structures that rely heavily on increased free fatty acids, thereby linking lipid metabolism to the FMDV replication complex. Nonstructural FMDV protein 2C is crucial for this complex, while host cell enzyme stearoyl coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1) is vital for lipid metabolism. We found that FMDV infection alters SCD1 expression in host cells. Inhibiting SCD1 expression or its enzymatic activity markedly decreases FMDV replication, while supplementing oleic acid, a catalytic product of SCD1, regulates FMDV replication. Additionally, SCD1 forms part of the FMDV replication complex and helps recruit 2C to a detergent-resistant membrane. Our study provides insights into the pathogenesis of FMDV and a potential novel drug target against the virus.
Supplemental Material: Rb-Sr isochron method of sediment source fingerprinting reveals a fundamental shift in erosion in response to anthropogenic land use
Authors: Seal Dylan M. , al. et
Published: September 2024

Data tables for sediment core, bedrock, and glacial till Rb-Sr isotope ratios and elemental geochemistry. Supplemental text includes a discussion of elemental geochemistry, chemical weathering, and grain size analysis, and figures that include a comparison of sediment trace element and rare earth ratios with bedrock and glacial till (Figure S1), major element Harker diagrams (Figure S2), chemical weathering data (Figure S3), and grain size data (Figure S4).
‘H-type’ duplex gallbladder resected laparoscopically with transcystic choledochoscopy and stone retrieval
Authors: Teasdale Alex , Uren Alex , Martin Allie
Published: September 2024

A duplex gallbladder is an extremely rare congenital anomaly that while may remain asymptomatic, may also develop into biliary colic, cholecystitis, cholangitis or pancreatitis. In these circumstances, it is advisable to surgically remove both gallbladders. Typically, a cholecystectomy is performed laparoscopically as this aids patient recovery and complication risk; however, when congenital abnormalities are present, some may choose to revert to an open operation. Through this case, we demonstrate that even when presented with a duplex gallbladder during surgery, it is safe to remove it laparoscopically as well as performing transcystic choledochoscopy and basket retrieval without complications.
Cotyledonoid dissecting leiomyoma with peritoneal dissemination
Authors: Egashira Hiroki , Ishida Hiroaki , Hiruta Nobuyuki , Takashima Akiko
Published: September 2024

Cotyledonoid dissecting leiomyoma (CDL) is a rare benign uterine leiomyoma that macroscopically shows multinodular placenta-like growth. Its border with the myometrial layer is unclear, making it clinically difficult to differentiate from uterine sarcoma. CDL is often misdiagnosed. We report a case of CDL in which a subserosal myoma was suspected preoperatively and an abdominal myomectomy was performed. However, due to intraoperative findings and intraoperative rapid histopathological diagnosis, the procedure was changed to total hysterectomy. Peritoneal dissemination had also occurred and was resected simultaneously. It has been reported that CDL is generally a disease with good prognosis and that fertility preservation may be considered depending on the case. On the other hand, some cases of large tumours have caused peritoneal dissemination. We did a literature review of CDL and compared a group with peritoneal dissemination who underwent disseminated resection simultaneously and a group without peritoneal dissemination. We found that the tumour diameter was significantly greater in the peritoneal dissemination group.