bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interobserver agreement during clinical magnetic resonance imaging of the equine foot
Authors: Byrne Christian A. , Voute Lance C. , Marshall John F.
Published: July 2024

Background

Agreement between experienced observers for assessment of pathology and assessment confidence are poorly documented for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the equine foot.

Objectives

To report interobserver agreement for pathology assessment and observer confidence for key anatomical structures of the equine foot during MRI.

Study design

Exploratory clinical study.

Methods

Ten experienced observers (diploma or associate level) assessed 15 equine foot MRI studies acquired from clinical databases of 3 MRI systems. Observers graded pathology in seven key anatomical structures (Grade 1: no pathology, Grade 2: mild pathology, Grade 3: moderate pathology, Grade 4: severe pathology) and provided a grade for their confidence for each pathology assessment (Grade 1: high confidence, Grade 2: moderate confidence, Grade 3: limited confidence, Grade 4: no confidence). Interobserver agreement for the presence/absence of pathology and agreement for individual grades of pathology were assessed with Fleiss' kappa (k). Overall interobserver agreement for pathology was determined using Fleiss' kappa and Kendall's coefficient of concordance (KCC). The distribution of grading was also visualised with bubble charts.

Results

Interobserver agreement for the presence/absence of pathology of individual anatomical structures was poor‐to‐fair, except for the navicular bone which had moderate agreement (k = 0.52). Relative agreement for pathology grading (accounting for the ranking of grades) ranged from KCC = 0.19 for the distal interphalangeal joint to KCC = 0.70 for the navicular bone. Agreement was generally greatest at the extremes of pathology. Observer confidence in pathology assessment was generally moderate to high.

Main limitations

Distribution of pathology varied between anatomical structures due to random selection of clinical MRI studies. Observers had most experience with low‐field MRI.

Conclusions

Even with experienced observers, there can be notable variation in the perceived severity of foot pathology on MRI for individual cases, which could be important in a clinical context.
Biochemical, kinetic, and structural characterization of a Bacillus tequilensis nitroreductase
Authors: Russo Sara , Rozeboom Henriette J. , Wijma Hein J. , Poelarends Gerrit J. , Fraaije Marco W.
Published: July 2024

Nitroreductases (NRs) are NAD(P)H‐dependent flavoenzymes that reduce nitro aromatic compounds to their corresponding arylamines via the nitroso and hydroxylamine intermediates. Because of their broad substrate scope and versatility, NRs have found application in multiple fields such as biocatalysis, bioremediation, cell‐imaging and prodrug activation. However, only a limited number of members of the broad NR superfamily (> 24 000 sequences) have been experimentally characterized. Within this group of enzymes, only few are capable of amine synthesis, which is a fundamental chemical transformation for the pharmaceutical, agricultural, and textile industries. Herein, we provide a comprehensive description of a recently discovered NR from Bacillus tequilensis, named BtNR. This enzyme has previously been demonstrated to have the capability to fully convert nitro aromatic and heterocyclic compounds to their respective primary amines. In this study, we determined its biochemical, kinetic and structural properties, including its apparent melting temperature (Tm) of 59 °C, broad pH activity range (from pH 3 to 10) and a notably low redox potential (−236 ± 1 mV) in comparison to other well‐known NRs. We also determined its steady‐state and pre‐steady‐state kinetic parameters, which are consistent with other NRs. Additionally, we elucidated the crystal structure of BtNR, which resembles the well‐characterized Escherichia coli oxygen‐insensitive NAD(P)H nitroreductase (NfsB), and investigated the substrate binding in its active site through docking and molecular dynamics studies with four nitro aromatic substrates. Guided by these structural analyses, we probed the functional roles of active site residues by site‐directed mutagenesis. Our findings provide valuable insights into the biochemical and structural properties of BtNR, as well as its potential applications in biotechnology.
Porous Yb2Si2O7 coating: A new‐type high‐temperature‐resistant abradable seal coating
Authors: Xu Mengjun , Luo Zhixin , Hou Xiaoyang , Wang Haoyu , Wu Zhen , Wang Lu , Wang Jingyang
Published: July 2024

Traditional abradable seal coatings (ASCs) face huge challenges for the requirements of next‐generation aero engines due to high inlet temperature (>1300°C) and non‐matched coefficients of thermal expansion for SiC based composites. Herein, a novel Yb2Si2O7 seal coating was developed to meet the demands of high‐temperature resistance and match the coefficient of thermal expansion with SiC. The prepared Yb2Si2O7 seal coating has excellent properties, including high porosity of 35.5%–23.3%, moderate hardness of 77.9–82.5 HR15Y, and high bond strength of 7.8–9.0 MPa. Adjusting spray current could effectively control the thickness, porosity, and hardness of the coating. More importantly, the coating also has good erosion resistance. Our results show that the fabricated porous Yb2Si2O7 coating would have promising applications in the field of high‐temperature ASCs.
Transcriptomic and proteomic elucidation of Z chromosome dosage compensation in Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Deng Zhongyuan , Zhang Yakun , Xie Xingcheng , Li Huihui , Guo Han , Ni Xinzhi , Li Xianchun
Published: July 2024

Transcriptomic data have been used to study sex chromosome dosage compensation (SCDC) in approximately 10 Lepidoptera ZW species, yielding a consensus compensation pattern of Z It remains unclear whether this compensation pattern holds when examining more Lepidoptera ZW species and/or using proteomic data to analyse SCDC. Here we combined transcriptomic and proteomic data as well as transcriptional level of six individual Z genes to reveal the SCDC pattern in Helicoverpa armigera, a polyphagous lepidopteran pest of economic importance. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the Z chromosome expression of H. armigera was balanced between male and female but substantially reduced relative to autosome expression, exhibiting an SCDC pattern of Z . When using H. amigera midgut proteomic data, the SCDC pattern of this species changed from Z at transcriptomic level to Z = ZZ = AA at the proteomic level. RT‐qPCR analysis of transcript abundance of six Z genes found that compensation for each Z gene could vary from no compensation to overcompensation, depending on the individual genes and tissues tested. These results demonstrate for the first time the existence of a translational compensation mechanism, which is operating in addition to a translational mechanism, such as has been reported in other lepidopteran species. And the transcriptional compensation mechanism functions to accomplish Z chromosome dosage balance between the sexes (M = F on the Z chromosome), whereas the translation compensation mechanism operates to achieve dosage compensation between Z chromosome and autosome (Z = AA).
Medical oncologist perceptions and willingness to participate in voluntary assisted dying in South Australia
Authors: Forgione Michelle O. , Smith Annabel , Hocking Christopher M.
Published: July 2024

This study surveyed South Australian medical oncologists to capture their perceptions, willingness to participate and perceived barriers and motivations to participation in voluntary assisted dying (VAD) activities. Approximately 70% of surveyed medical oncologists reported familiarity with VAD legislation. Less than half of physicians (39.1%) reported willingness to participate in any VAD activities, and the rate of conscientious objection was 22%. The top barriers to participation were lack of time and uncertainty given no prior experience. These results demonstrate both a low rate of conscientious objection and a low rate of willingness to participate at the point of VAD implementation in South Australia, and identify barriers to participation that are largely logistical.
Analysis of Carbon Flux Characteristics in Saline–Alkali Soil Under Global Warming
Authors: Haonan Qiu , Shihong Yang , Guangmei Wang , Xiaoling Liu , Jie Zhang , Yi Xu , Shide Dong , Hanwen Liu , Zewei Jiang
Published: July 2024

The carbon cycle of saline–alkali ecosystems will be affected to some extent in the context of future global warming. Therefore, we investigated the net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of three typical crops (wheat, maize and soybean) in the saline–alkaline land of the Yellow River Delta. To further investigate CO2 fluxes, NEE was decomposed into gross primary productivity (GPP) and ecosystem respiration (Re). In terms of seasonal variation, wheat and soybean were carbon sources in the early and late growth periods, and carbon sinks in the rest of the period, whereas maize was a carbon sink in the majority of the period, and maize had good carbon sink potential. The cumulative NEE during the growth periods for wheat, maize, and soybean were 414.86, 258.24 and 228.92 g cm−2, respectively, and the daily variation showed that the peak NEE values for the three crops preceded the peak values of both GPP and ecosystem respiration, occurring approximately at 12:00 a.m. In the correlation analysis, NEE and GPP of the three crops were well correlated with photosynthetic photon flux density and net radiation, whereas Re was significantly correlated with air temperature. Through a comparative analysis of CO2 fluxes within various agricultural ecosystems, our findings indicated that wheat demonstrated moderate carbon sequestration capabilities, whereas maize and soybean exhibited strong carbon sink characteristics. Notably, saline–alkali crops exhibited lower Re, whereas GPP levels remained at a moderate range. Therefore, under the global warming trend, the respiration of saline crops and soils will be affected and may change the original carbon sink into a carbon source. Hence, implementing suitable measures targeting saline–alkali areas, such as the establishment of an effective crop rotation system and the enhance saline–alkali land conditions, can reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, thus reducing the pressure of global warming and maintaining a stable carbon cycle in saline–alkali land.
Multigenerational Effects of Elevated CO2 and N Supply on Leaf Gas Exchange Traits in Wheat Plants
Authors: Wang Xizi , Rosenqvist Eva , Zong Yuzheng , Li Xiangnan , Liu Fulai
Published: July 2024

The responses of leaf gas exchange of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration (e[CO2]) were often investigated within a single generation, while the long‐term acclimation of photosynthesis to growth in e[CO2] over multiple generations has not been systematically studied. Here, five wheat cultivars were grown under either ambient (a[CO2], 400 ppm) or elevated (e[CO2], 800 ppm) CO2 concentration for three consecutive generations (G1 to G3) with two N‐fertilisation levels (1N–1 g N pot−1 and 2N–2 g N pot−1) in climate‐controlled greenhouses. Leaf gas exchange was determined in each generation of plants under different treatments. It was found that at both N levels, e[CO2] stimulated photosynthetic rate while reducing stomatal conductance, transpiration rate and leaf N concentration, resulting in an enhanced water use efficiency and photosynthetic N use efficiency. The N level modulated the intergenerational responses of photosynthetic capacity to e[CO2]; under low N supply, the maximum carboxylation rate (Vcmax), the maximum electron transport rate (Jmax) and the rate of triose phosphate utilisation (TPU) were significantly downregulated by e[CO2] from the first to the second generation, but recovered in the third generation; whereas at high N levels, photosynthetic acclimation was diminished with the progress of generations, with Vcmax, Jmax and TPU increased under e[CO2] in the third generation. These results suggest that intergenerational adaptation could alleviate the e[CO2]‐induced reduction of the photosynthetic capacity, but plants with different N status responded differently to adapt to the long‐term exposure to e[CO2]. Among the five cultivars, 325Jimai showed a better photosynthetic performance under e[CO2] over the three generations, while 02‐1Shiluan appeared to be more inhibited by CO2 elevation in the long term conditions. These findings provide new insights for breeding strategies in the future CO2‐enriched environments.
A sneak peek into chronic glucose exposure and insulin secretion impairment through translatome
Authors: Helena Grace Aprilia , Kume Shoen
Published: July 2024

Diabetes is an epidemic caused by a multitude of factors. Despite the studies attempting to unravel its mechanism, there is still more to discover about glucose–insulin dynamics. In a recent issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation, Cheruiyot et al. uncovered a translational regulatory circuit during β‐cell glucose toxicity that inherently affects the translational makeup and protein expression in functioning β‐cells.Journal of Clinical Investigation, Cheruiyot et al. uncovered a translational regulatory circuit during β‐cell glucose toxicity that inherently affects the translational makeup and protein expression in functioning β‐cells. Their multiomics approach might provide a deeper understanding of high glucose and translational regulation of genes involved in β‐cell insulin impairment caused by prolonged high‐glucose exposure.
Presenilin deficiency enhances tau phosphorylation and its secretion
Authors: Sun Yang , Islam Sadequl , Gao Yuan , Nakamura Tomohisa , Tomita Taisuke , Michikawa Makoto , Zou Kun
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of abnormally folded amyloid β‐protein (Aβ) in the brain parenchyma and phosphorylated tau in neurons. Presenilin (PS, PSEN) 1 and PS2 are essential components of γ‐secretase, which is responsible for the cleavage of amyloid precursor protein (APP) to generate Aβ. PSEN mutations are associated with tau aggregation in frontotemporal dementia, regardless of the presence or absence of Aβ pathology. However, the mechanism by which PS regulates tau aggregation is still unknown. Here, we found that tau phosphorylation and secretion were significantly increased in PS double–knock‐out (PS1/2−/−) fibroblasts compared with wild‐type fibroblasts. Tau‐positive vesicles in the cytoplasm were significantly increased in PS1/2−/− fibroblasts. Active GSK‐3β was increased in PS1/2−/− fibroblasts, and inhibiting GSK3β activity in PS1/2−/− fibroblasts resulted in decreased tau phosphorylation and secretion. Transfection of WT human PS1 and PS2 reduced the secretion of phosphorylated tau and active GSK‐3β in PS1/2−/− fibroblasts. However, PS1D257A without γ‐secretase activity did not decrease the secretion of phosphorylated tau. Furthermore, nicastrin deficiency also increased tau phosphorylation and secretion. These results suggest that deficient PS complex maturation may increase tau phosphorylation and secretion. Thus, our studies discover a new pathway by which PS regulates tau phosphorylation/secretion and pathology independent of Aβ and suggest that PS serves as a potential therapeutic target for treating neurodegenerative diseases involving tau aggregation.

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Revisiting class: A feminist political analysis of the Indian Time Use Survey
Authors: Naidu Sirisha , Rao Smriti
Published: July 2024

The literature on agrarian change in India has largely employed class categories based upon data on land, assets and occupational status, which collapse women's class relations into those of (mostly male) households heads. In this paper, we interrogate this understanding of class building on the work of Carmen Diana Deere. Employing the first ever national time use survey conducted in India in 2019, we interrogate class as a labour process that intersects with caste and gender. Our analysis of the data using a Marxist‐feminist framework suggests the following. First, there exist intra‐household gendered differences in class locations. This calls to question theoretical frameworks that assign a cohesive class location to all household members that underlie data collection in India and elsewhere. Second, individuals participate in multiple labour processes depending on their caste and gender. Hence, they may be subsumed to capital in varied and sometimes contradictory ways. Finally, we find that both men and women engage in reproductive labour in addition to other forms of labour, which varies by caste categories. This finding further underscores and supports previous research on the importance of an expanded conception of work that includes reproductive labour. In sum, we argue for a more complex understanding of class in India, one that incorporates its caste and gender dimensions.
Vitamin D status in female dogs with mammary gland tumors
Authors: Pineda Carmen , Raya Ana I. , Morgaz Juan , Sánchez‐Céspedes Raquel , Millán Yolanda , Aguilera‐Tejero Escolástico , López Ignacio
Published: July 2024

Background

Little information exists about vitamin D status in bitches with mammary tumors.

Objectives

To determine whether low plasma vitamin D concentrations are found in bitches with mammary tumors.

Animals

Eighty‐five client‐owned bitches with mammary tumors (n = 21 benign, n = 64 malignant) and 39 age‐matched healthy bitches.

Methods

Case‐control study. Plasma ionized and total calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, urea, creatinine, albumin, total proteins, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcitriol (1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D), and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were measured in all bitches at the time of clinical diagnosis and before any treatments. Statistical analysis was performed to compare variables among groups (control, benign, and malignant).

Results

No significant differences were found when plasma 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in bitches with malignant (148.9 [59.9] ng/mL) and benign mammary tumors (150.1 [122.3] ng/mL) were compared with control group (129.9 [54.5] ng/mL). Parathyroid hormone was significantly higher in bitches with malignant (19.9 [20.5] pg/mL), and benign mammary tumors (14.6 [14.9] pg/mL) compared with control group (7.5 [7.5] pg/mL; P < .01). Only the presence of mammary tumors (P < .01) and age (P = .04; adjusted R2 = .22) was significant in predicting PTH.

Conclusions

Bitches with mammary tumors do not have low 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations thus vitamin D supplementation is unlikely to be useful for prevention of mammary tumors in bitches.
Multi‐year monitoring shows higher species richness and diversity of fish assemblages in a Danish seagrass meadow as compared to neighbouring non‐vegetated areas
Authors: Olesen Søren Lundgaard , Hansen Michael , Jeppesen Jens Peder , Kühl Michael , Brodersen Kasper Elgetti
Published: July 2024

Seagrass meadows provide an important nursery and feeding habitat for fish, globally. However, limited data exist on how these vegetated coastal ecosystems affect local fish stocks over longer time periods. By means of beach seine hauling with a bio‐monitoring seine net, we collected fish data in Kronborg Bay (Denmark) over 4 years. The bay contains both vegetated and bare sediment areas in close proximity to Kronborg Castle in Elsinore and is part of the Øresund strait; a dynamic marine environment linking the Baltic Sea with the inner Danish waters (Kattegat). We investigated the biodiversity and fish abundance in a healthy seagrass meadow and compared it with a bare adjacent sediment area. We show that seagrass is important for fish species like the Atlantic cod, the two‐spotted goby, and the broadnosed pipefish. The seagrass meadow harboured more fish species and higher biodiversity, while the number of individuals was higher in the adjacent bare sediment area as a result of high abundances of lesser sand eel. Pilou's evenness and the Shannon‐Wiener index showed 2–4‐fold higher biodiversity in the seagrass meadow. The seagrass meadow harboured about 35% more fish species than the bare adjacent sediment. The Atlantic cod was almost entirely found in the seagrass meadow, while lesser sand eel that showed an overall increase in abundance in both habitats, represented the largest proportion of the total number of fish individuals (up to about 60%) and was mostly found on the bare adjacent sediment. Species abundance was analysed for changes over time, where, for example the European plaice showed an increase in abundance over the 4‐year period of investigation. Seagrass meadows can thus be very important for the Atlantic cod population in the Øresund strait and generally for local fish productivity, abundance and diversity.
Inflation and how to deal with it in France. A policy perspective from an empirical stock‐flow model
Authors: Mazier Jacques , Reyes Luis , Chong Chin Yuan
Published: July 2024

Using an empirical stock‐flow consistent model, we simulate an imported inflationary shock to analyze the macroeconomic impacts on the French economy. Facing the risk of a profit‐price‐wage spiral; alternative economic policy responses are evaluated. Traditional restrictive monetary policy does not seem well‐suited to fight imported inflation as the cost is significant with limited and delayed results. Increased social transfers can help workers support their loss of purchasing power. Reduced Value Added Tax can directly limit the inflation drift, but its concrete implementation may raise difficulties. These measures have a cost for public finances but are affordable if the inflation shock is temporary.
Impact of COVID‐19 on paracoccidioidomycosis. Which was the most influential: The pandemic or the virus?
Authors: Giusiano Gustavo , Tracogna Fernanda , Messina Fernando , Sosa Vanesa , Rojas Florencia , Chacón Yone , Vásquez Andrea , de los Ángeles Sosa Maria , Formosa Patricia , Fernández Mariana , Cattana María Emilia , Mussin Javier , Fernández Norma , Piedrabuena Milagros , Romero Mercedes , Miranda Carola , Posse Gladys , Davalos Florencia , Valdez Ruth , Acuña Alejandra , Aguilera Alejandra , Andreni Mariana , Serrano Julian , Álvarez Christian , Aguirre Diana , Pineda Gloria , Effron Guillermo Garcia , Santiso Gabriela
Published: July 2024

The impact of COVID‐19 on paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) in Argentina and the consequences generated by the pandemic are discussed. From 2018 to 3 years after the pandemic declaration, 285 proven PCM patients were registered. No association between both diseases was documented. PCM frequency decreased to extremely low levels in 2020. Mandatory social isolation and the emotional and psychological effects generated under pandemic circumstances led to delays in diagnosis, severe disseminated cases, and other challenges for diagnosis in subsequent years. Probable underdiagnosis should be considered due to the overlap of clinical manifestations, the low index of suspicion and the lack of sensitive diagnostic tools.
The recruitment of mechanosensitive enteric neurons in the guinea pig gastric fundus is dependent on ganglionic stretch level
Authors: Mayr Sophia , Elfers Kristin , Mazzuoli‐Weber Gemma
Published: July 2024

Background

Serving as a reservoir, the gastric fundus can expand significantly, with an initial receptive and a following adaptive relaxation, controlled by extrinsic and intrinsic reflex circuits, respectively. We hypothesize that mechanosensitive enteric neurons (MEN) are involved in the adaptive relaxation, which is initiated when a particular gastric volume and a certain stretch of the stomach wall is reached. To investigate whether the responsiveness of MEN in the gastric fundus is dependent on tissue stretch, we performed mechanical stimulations in stretched versus ganglia “at rest”.

Methods

Responses of myenteric neurons in the guinea pig gastric fundus were recorded with membrane potential imaging using Di‐8‐ANEPPS. MEN were identified by small‐volume intraganglionic injection in ganglia stretched to different degrees using a self‐constructed stretching tool. Immunohistochemical staining identified the neurochemical phenotype of MEN. Hexamethonium and capsaicin were added to test their effect on recruited MEN.

Key Results

In stretched compared to “at rest” ganglia, significantly more MEN were activated. The change in the ganglionic area correlated significantly with the number of additional recruited MEN. The additional recruitment of MEN was independent from nicotinic transmission and the ratio of active MEN in stretched ganglia shifted towards a nitrergic phenotype.

Conclusion and Inferences

The higher number of active MEN with increasing stretch of the ganglia and their greater share of nitrergic phenotype might indicate their contribution to the adaptive relaxation. Further experiments are necessary to address the receptors involved in mechanotransduction.
A potent endophytic fungus Purpureocillium lilacinumYZ1 protects against Fusarium infection in field‐grown wheat
Authors: Kimotho Roy Njoroge , Zheng Xin , Li Furong , Chen Yijun , Li Xiaofang
Published: July 2024

Fusarium diseases pose a severe global threat to major cereal crops, particularly wheat. Existing biocontrol strains against Fusarium diseases are believed to primarily rely on antagonistic mechanisms, but not widely used under field conditions.

Here, we report an endophytic fungus, Purpureocillium lilacinum YZ1, that shows promise in combating wheat Fusarium diseases. Under glasshouse conditions, YZ1 inoculation increased the survival rate of Fusarium graminearum (Fg)‐infected wheat seedlings from 0% to > 60% at the seedling stage, and reduced spikelet infections by 70.8% during anthesis. In field trials, the application of YZ1 resulted in an impressive 89.0% reduction in Fg‐susceptible spikelets.

While a slight antagonistic effect of YZ1 against Fg was observed on plates, the induction of wheat systemic resistance by YZ1, which is distantly effective, non‐specific, and long‐lasting, appeared to be a key contributor to YZ1's biocontrol capabilities. Utilizing three imaging methods, we confirmed YZ1 as a potent endophyte capable of rapid colonization of wheat roots, and systematically spreading to the stem and leaves. Integrating dual RNA‐Seq, photosynthesis measurements and cell wall visualization supported the link between YZ1's growth‐promoting abilities and the activation of wheat systemic resistance.

In conclusion, endophytes such as YZ1, which exhibits non‐antagonistic mechanisms, hold significant potential for industrial‐scale biocontrol applications.
The thermal sensitivity of growth and survival in a wild reptile with temperature‐dependent sex determination
Authors: Leivesley Jessica A. , Rollinson Njal
Published: July 2024

The Charnov‐Bull hypothesis is the leading explanation for the evolution of environmental sex determination (ESD), which includes temperature‐dependent sex determination (TSD), the most common form of ESD. Charnov‐Bull predicts a sex‐by‐incubation temperature interaction for fitness, matching offspring sex with thermal conditions that increase parental fitness. However, there is no general explanation for how the sex‐by‐temperature interaction arises. Two competing explanations for the interaction lie in the survival to maturity hypothesis (SM) and the Trivers–Willard extension (TW). Under SM, the sex that matures later is produced under optimal incubation regimes as the late‐maturing sex accrues more mortality by maturation, while TW suggests that males are always produced under optimal incubation regimes as male mating success is more sensitive to condition (general health, vigor) than female fecundity. In a system where females mature later than males, as in the painted turtle Chrysemys picta, SM and TW generate opposite predictions for the effect of incubation temperature on juvenile survival. We incubated C. picta eggs under either female‐promoting temperatures (28 ± 3 °C) or male‐promoting temperatures (25 ± 3 °C), then released the hatchlings into their natal pond. We used a Bayesian capture–mark–recapture approach to follow their survival over two growing seasons. We found a 2% depression of biweekly survival in individuals incubated under the cooler temperature, providing subtle support for SM. Incubation treatments did not influence growth. Large‐scale field experiments such as this one will be necessary for understanding TSD evolution, and we underline general principles to execute such experiments successfully.
Patterns of paternal medication dispensation around the time of conception
Authors: McEwen Isobel , Huybrechts Krista F. , Straub Loreen , Hernández‐Díaz Sonia
Published: July 2024

Background

Past research on the safety of prenatal exposure to medications has focused on maternal use during gestation, with limited research into the potential effects of paternal use during the spermatogenic period preceding conception. Knowing the most common medications used by fathers around the time of conception can inform research priorities in this field.

Objectives

To identify the most common medications dispensed to fathers in the preconception period.

Methods

Within the MarketScan research database of commercially insured individuals in the United States from 2011 to 2020, we identified pregnancies, estimated the date of conception, linked each pregnancy to the father using family enrolment information and required minimum enrolment period and prescription benefits. Then, we described the use of prescription medications by the father during the 90 days before conception based on pharmacy dispensation claims.

Results

Of 4,437,550 pregnancies, 51.6% were linked with a father. Among the 1,413,762 pregnancies connected with a father that also met the inclusion criteria, the most common classes of medications dispensed were psychotropics (8.66%), antibiotics (7.21%), and analgesics (6.82%). The most frequently dispensed medications were amoxicillin (3.75%), azithromycin (3.15%), fluticasone (2.70%) and acetaminophen/hydrocodone (2.70%). Some fathers filled prescriptions for medications associated with foetal embryopathy when used by the mother, including mycophenolate (0.04%), methotrexate (0.03%) and isotretinoin (0.02%).

Conclusions

More than a third of fathers filled at least one prescription medication in the preconception period, and several of them are known to be embryotoxic, emphasizing the necessity for further investigation into the potential teratogenicity of paternal exposure.
An update on biotechnological intervention mediated by plant tissue culture to boost secondary metabolite production in medicinal and aromatic plants
Authors: Prashant Shera Pandit , Bhawana Mishra
Published: July 2024

Since prehistoric times, medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) have been employed for various therapeutic purposes due to their varied array of pharmaceutically relevant bioactive compounds, i.e. secondary metabolites. However, when secondary metabolites are isolated directly from MAPs, there is occasionally very poor yield and limited synthesis of secondary metabolites from particular tissues and certain developmental stages. Moreover, many MAPs species are in danger of extinction, especially those used in pharmaceuticals, as their natural populations are under pressure from overharvesting due to the excess demand for plant‐based herbal remedies. The extensive use of these metabolites in a number of industrial and pharmaceutical industries has prompted a call for more research into increasing the output via optimization of large‐scale production using plant tissue culture techniques. The potential of plant cells as sources of secondary metabolites can be exploited through a combination of product recovery technology research, targeted metabolite production, and in vitro culture establishment. The plant tissue culture approach provides low‐cost, sustainable, continuous, and viable secondary metabolite production that is not affected by geographic or climatic factors. This study covers recent advancements in the induction of medicinally relevant metabolites, as well as the conservation and propagation of plants by advanced tissue culture technologies.
CLEM, a universal tool for analyzing structural organization in thylakoid membranes
Authors: Lübben Maximilian K. , Klingl Andreas , Nickelsen Jörg , Ostermeier Matthias
Published: July 2024

Chlorophyll (Chl) plays a crucial role in photosynthesis, functioning as a photosensitizer. As an integral component of this process, energy absorbed by this pigment is partly emitted as red fluorescence. This signal can be readily imaged by fluorescence microscopy and provides a visualization of photosynthetic activity. However, due to limited resolution, signals cannot be assigned to specific subcellular/organellar membrane structures. By correlating fluorescence micrographs with transmission electron microscopy, researchers can identify sub‐cellular compartments and membranes, enabling the monitoring of Chl distribution within thylakoid membrane substructures in cyanobacteria, algae, and higher plant single cells. Here, we describe a simple and effective protocol for correlative light‐electron microscopy (CLEM) based on the autofluorescence of Chl and demonstrate its application to selected photosynthetic model organisms. Our findings illustrate the potential of this technique to identify areas of high Chl concentration and photochemical activity, such as grana regions in vascular plants, by mapping stacked thylakoids.
Impact of introduction of a goal directed transfusion strategy in a patient blood management program: A single cardiac surgery centre experience
Authors: Fiameni Riccardo , Lucchelli Matteo , Novelli Chiara , Salice Valentina , Orsenigo Francesca , Gomarasca Mattia , MoroSalihovic Bedrana , Mondin Federico , Mistraletti Giovanni , Beverina Ivo
Published: July 2024

Background

The aim of this retrospective and observational study was to analyse the impact of the introduction of a goal directed transfusion (GDT) strategy based on a viscoelastic test (ROTEM®) and specific procoagulant products in a patient blood management (PBM) Program on blood product use and perioperative bleeding in a single cardiac surgery centre.

Study Design and Methods

Patient population underwent cardiac surgery from 2011 to 2021 was divided in two groups based on PBM protocol used (G#11–14, years 2011–2014, G#15–21, years 2015–2021) and compared for the following variables: intraoperative and postoperative transfusions of packed red blood cell and any procoagulant products, postoperative drain blood loss volume and rate of re‐exploration surgery.

The second program was defined after the introduction of a GDT protocol based on viscoelastic tests and specific procoagulant products.

Results

After the introduction of a GDT protocol, about 80% less amongst patients were transfused with fresh frozen plasma and any procoagulant product (p < 0.001 for both phases). Moreover, similar results were obtained with PRBC transfusions (p < 0.001) and drain blood loss volume (p = 0.006) in the postoperative phase.

The main factors affecting the use of any procoagulant and PBRC transfusion in the multivariate logistic regression analysis was Group (2 versus 1, OR 0.207, p < 0.001) and preoperative haemoglobin (OR 0.728, p < 0.001), respectively.

Discussion

In our experience, a GDT strategy for the diagnosis and treatment of the coagulopathy in patients undergone cardiac surgery led to a significant reduction in bleeding and transfusion.
Are sanctions costly for the energy industry of sanctioning states? A difference‐in‐differences approach to sanctions during the Russia–Ukraine war
Authors: Nguyen Phuc Van , Ngo Vu Minh , Nguyen Huan Huu
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the economic effects of states' implementing sanctions against Russia during the early stages of the Russia–Ukraine conflict in 2022. It specifically examines the effect of these sanctions on the stock returns of energy firms in a sample of 57 countries between August 2021 and October 2022, employing Difference‐in‐Differences imputation estimators to analyse heterogeneous event studies. The results show that sanctions initially lead to a short‐term increase in energy stock returns in the treatment countries, but this effect diminishes over time. The study also reveals that sanctions affect energy stock returns in NATO countries and flawed democracies significantly more than non‐NATO and fully democratic nations. The research includes robustness tests using stricter sanctions dates and an expanded sample, providing valuable insights for policymakers and investors navigating geopolitical events and their economic consequences.
How Static and Cyclic Loading Affect the Mechanical Properties of the Porcine Annulus Fibrosus
Authors: Neptune Andra , McMorran John G. , Gregory Diane E.
Published: July 2024

This study sought to evaluate the effects of prolonged cyclic loading on the tissue-level mechanical properties of the spinal annulus fibrosus. Functional spinal units (FSUs) were obtained from porcine cervical spines at the C3–C4 and C5–C6 levels. Following a 15-min preload of 300 N of axial compression, the FSUs were split into three groups: the cyclic loading group cycled between 0.35 MPa and 0.95 MPa for 2 h (n = 8); the static loading group was compressed at 0.65 MPa for 2 h (n = 10); and a control group which only underwent the 300 N preload (n = 11). Following loading, samples of the annulus were excised to perform intralamellar tensile testing and interlamellar 180 deg peel tests. Variables analyzed from the intralamellar test were stress and strain at the end of the toe region, stress and strain at initial failure (yield point), Young's modulus, ultimate stress, and strain at ultimate stress. Variables evaluated from the interlamellar tests were lamellar adhesion strength, adhesion strength variability, and stiffness. The analysis showed no significant differences between conditions on any measured variable; however, there was a trend (p = 0.059) that cyclically loaded tissues had increased adhesion strength variability compared to the static and control conditions. The main finding of this study is that long-duration axial loading did not impact the intra- or interlamellar mechanical properties of the porcine annulus. A trend of increased adhesion strength variability in cyclically loaded samples could indicate a potential predisposition of the annulus to delamination.
Detecting Toe-Off and Initial Contact in Real-Time With Self-Adapting Thresholds
Authors: Akhetova Sofya M. , Roembke Rebecca , Adamczyk Peter
Published: July 2024

This research introduces an adaptive control algorithm designed to determine gait phase in real-time using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) affixed to the shank. Focusing on detecting specific gait events, primarily initial contact (IC) and toe-off (TO), the algorithm utilizes dynamic thresholds and ratios that facilitate accurate event determination adaptively across a range of walking speeds. Built-in safety checks further ensure precision and minimize false detections. We validated the algorithm with eight participants walking at varying speeds. The algorithm demonstrated promising results in detecting IC and TO events with mean lead of 8.95 ms and 4.42 ms and detection success rate of 100% and 99.72%, respectively. These results are consistent with benchmarks from established algorithms (Hanlon and Anderson, 2009, “Real-Time Gait Event Detection Using Wearable Sensors,” Gait Posture, 30(4), pp. 523–527; Maqbool et al., 2017, “A Real-Time Gait Event Detection for Lower Limb Prosthesis Control and Evaluation,” IEEE Trans. Neural Syst. Rehabil. Eng.: Publ. IEEE Eng. Med. Biol. Soc., 25(9), pp. 1500–1509). Moreover, the algorithm's self-adaptive nature ensures it can be used in scenarios of varying movement, offering a promising solution for real-time gait phase detection.
Haar Wavelet Approach for the Mathematical Model on Hepatitis B Virus
Authors: S. Kumbinarasaiah , R. Yeshwanth
Published: July 2024

The Haar wavelet collocation method, a wavelet technique, is discussed in this article to examine the mathematical model of Hepatitis B virus infection. We took into account the HB virus, cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) immune response, birth rate, death rate, and infected and uninfected hepatocytes to identify the dynamics of the hepatitis B virus infection. An ordinary differential equation (ODE) system that is nonlinear makes up this model. Using this method, the Hepatitis B Virus model can be solved by expressing each dependent variable as a Haar wavelet and then converting the system of ordinary differential equations into a system of nonlinear algebraic equations. The unknown coefficient values are thought to be extracted using the collocation procedure and the Newton–Raphson method. Tables and graphs are used to illustrate the characteristics of the Hepatitis B virus. The obtained results show that the current approach outperforms other approaches found in the literature in terms of accuracy. Mathematica software is utilized to obtain numerical results and nature.
Experimental Investigation of Processing Temperature Effect on Adhesive Bond Strength Between Engineering Thermoplastics in the Plastic Injection Molding Process
Authors: Özel Ali , Soylemez Emrecan
Published: July 2024

Multicomponent injection molding industry is experiencing a growth due to its ability to reduce production costs and streamline processes. However, compared to single injection, multicomponent injection molding introduces interface regions where multiple engineering polymers meet. Consequently, it is essential to comprehend and enhance the adhesive bonding strength properties of these polymers. This study investigates the adhesive bond strength of polymer–polymer multimaterial molding using two-shot bi-injection and overmolding techniques. The research also emphasizes the influence of injection molding process parameters of mold temperature and melt temperature on the adhesive bond strength of polycarbonate (PC), polycarbonate–acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC–ABS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and styrene ethylene butadiene styrene (SEBS). Tensile strength results revealed that the bi-injection method yields the highest interface strength, approximately 10 MPa lower than the reference value for single-material hard–hard plastics. Results from overmolded samples for both injection sequences are presented, indicating that material with low melting temperature was found to be the first injected part for better adhesion strength. Empirical equations for estimating adhesion strength were derived as a function of interface temperature obtained from CAE numerical simulations and polymer glass transition temperatures. The proposed equation achieved R2 values greater than 0.96. This empirically derived equation will serve as a guide for multi-injection manufacturing processes.
Iterative Stress Reconstruction Algorithm to Estimate Three-Dimensional Residual Stress Fields in Manufactured Components
Authors: Mathews Ritin , Malik Arif , Karandikar Jaydeep , Tyler Christopher , Smith Scott
Published: July 2024

Residual stress (RS) significantly impacts the mechanical performance of components. Measurement of RS often provides incomplete data in terms of components of stress and spatial density. Employing such fields in finite element simulations results in significant modification of the field to achieve equilibrium and compatibility among strains. To overcome this, an iterative stress reconstruction algorithm (ISRA) is developed to estimate 3D RS fields that satisfy equilibrium, are stress component-wise complete, and represent the characterized data sampled. An Al 7075-T651 plate and an additively manufactured (AM) A36 steel wall are considered for RS reconstruction using measurement data from the literature. A maximum variation of ∼2.5 MPa in the Al plate, and ∼10 MPa in the steel wall are observed between the reconstructed and measured stresses. Furthermore, unknown stress components emerge and reach significant magnitudes (upto ∼2.3 MPa in the Al plate and ∼45 MPa in the AM wall) during ISRA. Indeed, it is found that minor errors in measurement or data processing are eliminated through the physical requirements during ISRA. Employing a reconstructed RS field is hence not just more accurate given its compatibility, but it additionally corrects for minor errors in measurement. Furthermore, it is found that spatially dense measurement data result in convergence with fewer iterations. Finally, although ISRA yields a nonunique solution dependent on boundary conditions, measurement errors, fitting errors, and mesh density, it accommodates for uncertainties and inaccuracies in measurement, as opposed to failing to reach a physically realistic converged solution.
A Deep Generative Model for Multi-Ship Trajectory Forecasting With Interaction Modeling
Authors: Zhu Mingda , Han Peihua , Tian Weiwei , Skulstad Robert , Zhang Houxiang , Li Guoyuan
Published: July 2024

Multi-agent modeling is a challenging issue in intelligent systems, which is further compounded by heavy and complex traffic in maritime contexts. Trajectory forecasting can enhance operation safety. Nonetheless, effectively modeling interactions among vessels poses a significant difficulty. Toward this end, we propose a conditional variational autoencoder approach to ship trajectory prediction in a dynamic and multi-modal encounter situation. Leveraging a shared recurrent neural network architecture and attention mechanism, our method aggregates vessel trajectory data, enabling the model to learn and encapsulate meaningful encounter information across active vessels. We utilize automatic identification system data from the Oslofjord region to validate our approach. Through comprehensive experiments conducted on a four-ship encounter dataset, our proposed model demonstrates promising performance, by outperforming the benchmark models. Furthermore, we analyze the prediction model in a wide array of dimensions, showcasing its proficiency in complex ship behaviors learning, modeling ship interaction, and approximating actual trajectories.
Tunable elastic wave transmission and resonance in a periodically aligned tube-block structure
Authors: Sasaki Akira , Mori Naoki , Hayashi Takahiro
Published: July 2024

A tube-block structure is proposed to realize tunable elastic wave transmission and resonance, consisting of periodically aligned circular tubes sandwiched and joined by two blocks. Finite element simulations for a unit structure are carried out to reveal the frequency dependence of the transmission behavior for the normal incidence of longitudinal and transverse waves in the tube-block structure. As a result, the transmission ratios are found to take multiple local maxima at different peak frequencies. Eigenfrequency analysis shows that the local resonances of the tube and the block surfaces occur at the peak frequencies in the transmission ratios. The peak frequencies originating from the local resonance of the tube depend on its radius and thickness, while those from the resonance on the block surfaces are in good agreement with the theoretical relation between the interval of the periodically aligned tubes and the wavelength of the Rayleigh wave. Furthermore, when the tube-block structure is subjected to compressive loading, the deformation shifts the peak frequencies of the transmission ratio corresponding to the local resonance of the tube. This result implies that the proposed structure has the potential to serve as a tunable meta-interface between solid blocks.