bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperature effects on teleost immunity in the light of climate change
Authors: Scharsack Jörn Peter , Franke Frederik
Published: July 2022

Temperature is an important environmental modulator of teleost immune activity. Susceptibility of teleosts to temperature variation depends on the species‐specific adaptive temperature range, and the activity of the teleost immune system is generally temperature‐dependent. Similar to many physiological and metabolic traits of ectotherms, temperature modulates the activity of immune traits. At low temperatures, acquired immunity of many teleost species is down‐modulated, and their immuno‐competence mainly depends on innate immunity. At intermediate temperatures, both innate and acquired immunity are fully active and provide optimal protection, including long‐lasting immunological memory. When temperatures increase and reach the upper permissive range, teleost immunity is compromised. Moreover, temperature shifts may have negative effects on teleost immune functions, in particular if shifts occur rapidly with high amplitudes. On the contrary, short‐term temperature increase may help teleost immunity to fight against pathogens transiently. A major challenge to teleosts therefore is to maintain immuno‐competence throughout the temperature range they are exposed to. Climate change coincides with rising temperatures, and more frequent and more extreme temperature shifts. Both are likely to influence the immuno‐competence of teleosts. Nonetheless, teleosts exist in habitats that differ substantially in temperature, ranging from below zero in the Arctic's to above 40°C in warm springs, illustrating their enormous potential to adapt to different temperature regimes. The present review seeks to discuss how changes in temperature variation, induced by climate change, might influence teleost immunity.
Herbal nanocosmecuticals: A review on cosmeceutical innovation
Authors: Vaishampayan Purva , Rane Meenal M.
Published: July 2022

Background

Cosmeceuticals are drugs, cosmetics, or a combination of both. Cosmeceuticals are personal care products that not only beautify but also need to have healing, therapeutic, and disease‐fighting characteristics. For decades, phytocompounds have been employed in cosmeceuticals and have shown potential in applications such as moisturizing, sunscreen, antiaging, and hair‐based therapy. The inability of phytocompounds to easily penetrate through the skin and their instability limit their usage in cosmetic products. This can be overcome by incorporating nanotechnology into cosmetic products for a more stable and long‐lasting release. Nanotechnology's substantial impact on the cosmetics industry is due to the improved properties attained by particles at the nano scale, such as color, solubility, and transparency. Liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, niosomes, and many varieties of nanoparticulate systems are commonly used in cosmetics. Safety concerns for the usage of nanomaterials in cosmeceuticals have been raised lately, hence causing the restriction on the use of nanomaterials by cosmetic companies and enforcing laws demanding thorough safety testing prior to market entry.

Aim

This review focuses on the types of nanomaterials used in phytocosmetics, along with the potential hazards they pose to human life and the environment, and what legislation has been enacted or can be enacted to address them.

Methods

For relevant literature, a literature search was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Nanotechnology, cosmeceuticals, herbal cosmetics, and other related topics were researched and evaluated in articles published between 2016 and 2022.

Results

Herbal drugs provide a tremendous range of therapeutic benefits. And when nanoparticles were introduced to the personal care industry, the quality of the final product containing phyto‐compounds continued to rise. Unfortunately, because these nano components can permeate intact skin barriers and create unwanted consequences, this revolution comes with a slew of health risks.

Conclusion

The cosmeceutical industry's expansion and growth in the application of herbal compounds, as well as the entrance of nanotechnology into the cosmeceuticals business, entail the urgent need for scientific research into their efficacy, safety profile, and use.
Early pregnancy vitamin D insufficiency and gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shang Min , Zhao Ningning
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that a link existed between vitamin D levels in the first trimester and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

The 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3levels were tested in the first trimester and pregnant outcomes were followed up in 1726 women.

Results

Only 5.9% of pregnant women have sufficient 25(OH)D3. More women with GDM are in the status of 25(OH)D3insufficiency than women with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) (p < 0.05). Age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.047, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.014–1.081), pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) (OR: 1.132, 95%CI: 1.092–1.173) were risk factors of GDM while 25‐(OH) D3(OR: 0.979, 95%CI: 0.960–0.999) was a protective factor. After adjusted for maternal age and pre‐pregnancy BMI, 25(OH)D3insufficiency (<30 ng/mL) is an independent predictor of GDM (OR: 2.122, 95%CI: 1.084–4.155); 25(OH)D3level correlated with fasting blood glucose in the first trimester negatively.

Conclusion

Vitamin D insufficiency in early pregnancy was significantly associated with an increased risk for GDM in Chinese women.
A smoothness optimization method for horizontal alignment considering ballasted track maintenance
Authors: Shi Jin , Zhang Yuxiao , Chen Yunfeng , Wang Yingjie
Published: July 2022

This paper proposes a smoothness optimization method of horizontal alignment based on orthogonal least squares and the theory of controlling the track smoothness. With this method, multiple curve types can be fitted simultaneously according to the maintenance requirements, and the residual deviation in the track is optimized according to the smoothness standard. The target alignment of the tamping operation is constructed, providing support for the maintenance of the ballasted track. The implementation results show that the proposed method fully adapts to operating railway maintenance conditions, and the optimized design parameters resemble the field observation results. The lateral profile track quality index is reduced from 0.78 to 0.39, the amplitudes of the 10 and 60 m mid‐chord offset decrease by 73% and 52%, respectively, and the 30‐m vector distance difference decreased by 53%, indicating effective improvement.
Chronic illness and critical care—A qualitative exploration of family experience and need
Authors: O'Gara Geraldine , Wiseman Theresa , Doyle Anne‐Marie , Pattison Natalie
Published: July 2022

Background

People with chronic illnesses such as cancer and cardiovascular disease are living longer and often require the support of critical care services. Current health care provision means patients may be discharged home once clinically stable despite still having high care demands including social, emotional, or physical needs. Families are often required to assume caregiving roles. Research into family burden using quantitative methods has increased awareness, however, little qualitative work exists and the development of support interventions for families is required.

Aims

To explore the experience and needs of family members of people with an existing chronic illness who are admitted to the Critical Care Unit (CCU), and to identify the desired components of a family support intervention in the form of a resource toolkit.

Study design

A qualitative exploration of family experience and need, and content development for a resource toolkit using focus group methodology. Two focus groups and one face‐to‐face interview were conducted involving nine adult (≥18 years) family members of adult patients with chronic illness admitted to critical care in the preceding 9 months across two specialist hospitals in the UK. These were digitally recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed.

Results

Four themes were identified: importance of communication, need for support, trauma of chronic illness, and having to provide “Do‐it‐Yourself” care. The immense responsibility of families to provide care throughout the illness trajectory is highlighted. Understandable information is essential for a family support toolkit.

Conclusion

Family members often view a critical care episode broadly from diagnosis through to recovery/rehabilitation. Basic communication training skills within critical care should be ensured, alongside coordination of simple solutions. The potential traumatic impact on families should be highlighted early within the pathway, and positive aspects used to harness essential family support. A simple and coordinated approach to a toolkit is preferred.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study highlights that a critical care experience may impact broadly beyond CCU, and the importance of informing patients and families of this potential experience, prior to or on admission, to aid preparation. Further highlighted is the need for contemporaneous and accurate information from clinicians involved in care. Families report a better experience when there is good collaboration across critical care services and admitting clinical teams. Early involvement of families in overall discharge planning is essential to allow patients and families to adjust and plan for recovery.
Learning from critical care nurses' wartime experiences and their long‐term impacts
Authors: Segev Ronen
Published: July 2022

Background

The history of critical care nursing is intertwined with that of battlefield nursing, where for almost 200 years, nurses worked to save injured soldiers' lives, risking their own physical and emotional injuries. Today, with nurses increasingly deployed to provide critical care during natural, man‐made and public health crises that can resemble battlefield situations, there is much to learn from battlefield nurses.

Aim

This qualitative study aims to explore the lessons of the experiences of civilian nurses deployed to Israeli battlefields in three wars between 1967 and 1982.

Methods

Qualitative, semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews were conducted with twenty‐two former military nurses who were deployed in three wars between 1967 and 1982. We analysed interview transcripts using a content analysis approach. COREQ, a 32‐item checklist, guided method selection, data analysis and the findings' presentation.

Findings

Data analysis revealed three main themes, with ten related subthemes: Field Service Challenges, Coping with Challenges, and Nurses' Need for Recognition.

Conclusion

The findings identify mental, emotional, and organizational issues resulting from nurses' wartime experiences, revealing numerous opportunities for better preparing and supporting critical care nurses before, during, and after crises.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Critical care nursing during crises, such as wartime, is unique but increasingly common. The memories and ongoing impact of those experiences offer invaluable information for nursing and health policy stakeholders planning for future deployments during wartime or other disasters such as the COVID‐19 pandemic and the Russo‐Ukrainian war.
Virtual Tai Chi program for patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation: Proof‐of‐concept feasibility trial
Authors: Staller Kyle , Paz Mary , Rones Ramel , Macklin Eric A. , Garcia‐Fischer Isabelle , Murray Helen Burton , Kuo Braden
Published: July 2022

Background

Satisfaction with current treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS‐C) is low, with many patients turning to complementary treatments. Tai Chi is a mind–body medicine practice with proven efficacy in other functional disorders. As a proof‐of‐concept, we tested the feasibility and preliminary clinical outcomes associated with a Tai Chi program designed for IBS‐C.

Methods

A total of 27 IBS‐C patients participated in a single‐arm trial of 8 sessions of Tai Chi delivered weekly over 7 weeks via live videoconferencing in group format. Clinical improvement was assessed via change in IBS Symptom Severity Score (IBS‐SSS) from baseline to 4 weeks posttreatment (week 11) with secondary outcomes exploring symptom ratings, IBS‐related quality of life (IBS‐QOL), GI‐specific anxiety, abdominal distention, and psychological factors.

Key Results

Despite substantial dropout (n = 7; 26%), the treatment protocol had moderate to excellent feasibility for other criteria. Treatment satisfaction was excellent. Exit interviews confirmed high satisfaction with the program among completers, but a high burden of data collection was noted. One participant experienced an adverse event (mild, exacerbation of sciatica). There was a significant improvement in intra‐individual IBS‐SSS between baseline and posttreatment (average change −66.5, 95% CI −118.6 to −14.3, p = 0.01). Secondary outcomes were notable for improvements in other IBS symptom scoring measures, IBS‐QOL, measured abdominal diameter, and leg strength.

Conclusions and Inferences

Our data provide preliminary evidence of the feasibility of a Tai Chi intervention for IBS‐C, show promise for improving outcomes, and identify more streamlined data collection as an area for further program improvement.
Insights into the mechanism of diurnal variations in methane emission from the stem surfaces of Alnus japonica
Authors: Takahashi Kenshi , Sakabe Ayaka , Azuma Wakana A. , Itoh Masayuki , Imai Tomoya , Matsumura Yasuki , Tateishi Makiko , Kosugi Yoshiko
Published: July 2022

Recent studies have suggested that in certain environments, tree stems emit methane (CH4). This study explored the mechanism of CH4 emission from the stem surfaces of Alnus japonica in a riparian wetland. Stem CH4 emission rates and sap flux were monitored year‐round, and fine‐root anatomy was investigated.

CH4 emission rates were estimated using a closed‐chamber method. Sap flux was measured using Granier‐type thermal dissipation probes. Root anatomy was studied using both optical and cryo‐scanning electron microscopy.

CH4 emissions during the leafy season exhibited a diurnally changing component superimposed upon an underlying continuum in which the diurnal variation was in phase with sap flux. We propose a model in which stem CH4 emission involves at least two processes: a sap flux‐dependent component responsible for the diurnal changes, and a sap flux‐independent component responsible for the background continuum. The contribution ratios of the two processes are season‐dependent.

The background continuum possibly resulted from the diffusive transport of gaseous CH4 from the roots to the upper trunk. Root anatomy analysis indicated that the intercellular space of the cortex and empty xylem cells in fine roots could serve as a passageway for transport of gaseous CH4.
Lines for blast resistance genes with genetic background of Indica Group rice as international differential variety set
Authors: Fukuta Yoshimichi , Koide Yohei , Kobayashi Nobuya , Kato Hiroshi , Saito Hiroki , Telebanco‐Yanoria Mary Jeanie , Ebron Leodegario A. , Mercado‐Escueta Doris , Tsunematsu Hiroshi , Ando Ikuo , Fujita Daisuke , Obara Mitsuhiro , Tomita Asami , Hayashi Nagao , Imbe Tokio
Published: July 2022

Twenty‐one near‐isogenic lines (NILs) for 18 resistance genes—Pia,Pii,Pi3,Pi5(t),Pik‐s(two lines from two donors),Pik‐m,Pi1,Pik‐h,Pik,Pik‐p,Pi7(t),Pi9(t),Piz,Piz‐5,Piz‐t,Pita‐2,Pita(three donors) andPi20(t)—to blast disease were developed through introduction into the genetic background of a semi‐dwarf susceptible rice line, US‐2, by recurrent backcross breeding. US‐2 is derived from a cross between an Indonesian Tropical Japonica Group cultivar, 'Kencana', and an improved high‐yielding and semi‐dwarf Indica Group cultivar, 'Takanari', bred in Japan. The reactions of US‐2 NILs to standard differential blast isolates were clearly defined than previous differential varieties (DVs) such as monogenic lines. US‐2 and its NILs are adapted well to wide environmental conditions from temperate to subtropical regions. They will be useful and easier to handle and manage as the first DV set with genetic background of Indica Group rice for pathology studies and as gene sources for rice breeding programme.
Conspiracy narratives in Russia: A search for identity, religious worldviews, and Russian politics
Authors: Panin Stanislav
Published: July 2022

Conspiracy thinking plays an important role in Russian culture. Contemporary Russian conspiracism inherits elements of the Cold War rhetoric, French anti‐Freemasonic literature, ideas of conservative Russian Orthodox thinkers and North American Christian writers. In today's Russia we see two distinct, although interconnected, types of conspiracy narratives—official and popular. Official narratives, which can be seen as a component of the new Russian ideology and civil religion, promote a patriotic sentiment in order to consolidate the nation and solidify political hierarchy through a sharp distinction between “traditional values” and the “depraved West.” Popular conspiracy narratives share similar characteristics but lean towards a thorough disbelief in institutions. From this perspective, elites worldwide, including Russia, participate in the conspiracy of governments and corporations. Because of this attitude, popular conspiracy narratives often conflict with official rhetoric even if at times official and popular narratives seem aligned.
Specification Analysis for Technology Use and Teenager Well-Being: Statistical Validity and a Bayesian Proposal
Authors: Semken Christoph , Rossell David
Published: July 2022

A key issue in science is assessing robustness to data analysis choices, while avoiding selective reporting and providing valid inference. Specification Curve Analysis is a tool intended to prevent selective reporting. Alas, when used for inference it can create severe biases and false positives, due to wrongly adjusting for covariates, and mask important treatment effect heterogeneity. As our motivating application, it led an influential study to conclude there is no relevant association between technology use and teenager mental well-being. We discuss these issues and propose a strategy for valid inference. Bayesian Specification Curve Analysis (BSCA) uses Bayesian Model Averaging to incorporate covariates and heterogeneous effects across treatments, outcomes and subpopulations. BSCA gives significantly different insights into teenager well-being, revealing that the association with technology differs by device, gender and who assesses well-being (teenagers or their parents).
‘It increases my ability to influence my ways of working’: A qualitative study on digitally mediated patient management in primary healthcare
Authors: Frennert Susanne , Erlingsdóttir Gudbjörg , Muhic Mirella , Rydenfält Christofer , Milos Nymberg Veronica , Ekman Björn
Published: July 2022

Background

Digitally mediated primary healthcare is increasingly influencing working conditions, raising questions about how digitally mediated patient management is experienced.

Aim

The aim of this study was to generate insights, through the lens of postphenomenology, into how digitally mediated primary healthcare affects the work and working environment, by gathering perspectives from primary healthcare professionals who regularly manage patient errands through a digital platform.

Methods

Two rounds of interviews were conducted with a diversified sample of primary healthcare professionals at a primary healthcare centre. The first round of interviews was conducted during the initial phase of the deployment of a digital platform for patient management, with the second round conducted a year later (n = 24). The interview transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes relating to digitally mediated care work were identified: ‘positive feelings towards digitally mediated primary healthcare’, ‘seeing a positive work atmosphere as a prerequisite for change’, ‘experiencing increased control over the pace of workflow’ and ‘reconfiguration of previous problems’.

Conclusion and relevance to clinical practice

Building on postphenomenology, our study adds to the understanding of how material and symbolic aspects mutually affect the mediating role of a digital platform for patient management. Thus, the results indicate that the experience of using digitally mediated care processes is conditioned by the discourse towards digitalisation at the workplace and the management's approach to and inclusion of employees in the digital transition of primary healthcare, as well as the usefulness and usability of the digital platform. The findings can inform both practice and policy.
The evolutionary patterns of barley pericentromeric chromosome regions, as shaped by linkage disequilibrium and domestication
Authors: Chen Yun‐Yu , Schreiber Miriam , Bayer Micha M. , Dawson Ian K. , Hedley Peter E. , Lei Li , Akhunova Alina , Liu Chaochih , Smith Kevin P. , Fay Justin C. , Muehlbauer Gary J. , Steffenson Brian J. , Morrell Peter L. , Waugh Robbie , Russell Joanne R.
Published: July 2022

The distribution of recombination events along large cereal chromosomes is uneven and is generally restricted to gene‐rich telomeric ends. To understand how the lack of recombination affects diversity in the large pericentromeric regions, we analysed deep exome capture data from a final panel of 815 Hordeum vulgare (barley) cultivars, landraces and wild barleys, sampled from across their eco‐geographical ranges. We defined and compared variant data across the pericentromeric and non‐pericentromeric regions, observing a clear partitioning of diversity both within and between chromosomes and germplasm groups. Dramatically reduced diversity was found in the pericentromeres of both cultivars and landraces when compared with wild barley. We observed a mixture of completely and partially differentiated single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between domesticated and wild gene pools, suggesting that domesticated gene pools were derived from multiple wild ancestors. Patterns of genome‐wide linkage disequilibrium, haplotype block size and number, and variant frequency within blocks showed clear contrasts among individual chromosomes and between cultivars and wild barleys. Although most cultivar chromosomes shared a single major pericentromeric haplotype, chromosome 7H clearly differentiated the two‐row and six‐row types associated with different geographical origins. Within the pericentromeric regions we identified 22 387 non‐synonymous SNPs, 92 of which were fixed for alternative alleles in cultivar versus wild accessions. Surprisingly, only 29 SNPs found exclusively in the cultivars were predicted to be ‘highly deleterious’. Overall, our data reveal an unconventional pericentromeric genetic landscape among distinct barley gene pools, with different evolutionary processes driving domestication and diversification.
Linked Data for the Historic Environment
Authors:   University of South Wales, Binding Ceri , Evans Tim ,   Archaeology Data Service, Gilham Jo ,   Archaeology Data Service, Tudhope Douglas ,   University of South Wales, Wright Holly ,   Archaeology Data Service
Published: July 2022

This article discusses the outcomes of research undertaken by the Hypermedia Research Group at the University of South Wales in collaboration with the OASIS team at the Archaeology Data Service in the Linked Data for the Historic Environment (LD4HE) project. The new OASIS system allows stakeholders to record information/events accurately and consistently, using established heritage and spatial vocabularies, including those currently available via the Heritage Data platform. The LD4HE project explores one avenue of enhancing the potential re-use of information recorded by OASIS and making connections with other online data collections. LD4HE enables the creation and export of RDF from the new OASIS V system, a major step towards the production of Linked Data. The main outcomes comprise a conceptual mapping between mandatory OASIS fields and the standard CIDOC-CRM ontology, together with a template-based tool to convert records exported from OASIS to a corresponding RDF representation. A set of SPARQL queries demonstrates the outcomes of the data conversion. New specialised vocabularies required by OASIS have been published as linked data on the Heritage Data platform. The methods are described and illustrated with examples. Reflections on the case study and cost/benefit considerations for Linked Data conversion are discussed, together with possible strategies for reducing the costs of producing Linked Data.
An Intracortical Polyimide Microprobe With Piezoelectric-Based Stiffness Control
Authors: Sharafkhani Naser , Orwa Julius O. , Adams Scott D. , Long John M. , Lissorgues Gaëlle , Rousseau Lionel , Kouzani Abbas Z.
Published: July 2022

Insertion of a microprobe into the brain is challenging because it needs to have a minimum stiffness to be successfully implanted and a maximum softness to exhibit compliance with surrounding neural tissue during operation. A microprobe’s critical buckling force not only dictates the microprobe resistance to buckling during insertion but also reveals the corresponding compliance during operation. The methods that are currently used to insert flexible microprobes into the brain are far from perfect because they may adversely affect the microprobe intrinsic softness. In this article, a piezoelectric-based mechanism is presented, theoretically modeled, and simulated to precisely adjust the critical buckling force of a polyimide microprobe during insertion into the brain. Two parallel piezoelectric layers are extended along the length of a polyimide microprobe and connected to a voltage source. Based on analytical modeling and simulation results, placing the piezoelectric layers closer to the neutral axis of the structure leads to a microprobe with higher buckling capacity and greater compliance during insertion and operation, respectively. Depending on the applied voltage and the configurations of the microprobe and piezoelectric layers, the critical buckling force of the modified polyimide microprobe can be adjusted from less than 0.02 mN to higher than the minimum brain penetration force of 0.5 mN, compared to a fixed critical buckling force of a polyimide microprobe without the piezoelectric layer.
Reflections on Designing in the Wild: How Theories of Design Information Manifest in Practice
Authors: Damen Nicole B. , Toh Christine A.
Published: July 2022

Information acquisition, utilization, and communication are integral to the design process, but systematic investigation of information behavior is complicated by its variety and the ways in which designers engage with information throughout the design process. Our previous work developed a theoretical framework to categorize the various types of information used during the design process, known as the Information Archetypes Framework. This article explores how these information dimensions manifest in design practice, as reflected on by experienced practicing designers. Deep qualitative analysis of eight interviews with practicing designers revealed that the designers intentionally adapt their behavior to match situation specific needs and navigate the tensions between information dimensions through trajectories and loops.
Closed-Loop Trajectory Tracking Control of a Cable-Driven Continuum Robot With Integrated Draw Tower Grating Sensor Feedback
Authors: Cao Yongfeng , Feng Fan , Liu Zefeng , Xie Le
Published: July 2022

Due to the inherent deformability of continuum robots (CRs), closed-loop control strategies of CRs come with some challenges, including sensor integration within a limited dimension and uncertainties with the CR system. In this paper, to obtain the spatial shape information and tip position of a cable-driven CR, a draw tower grating (DTG) sensor is integrated. A shape sensing algorithm is proposed to reconstruct the shape of the CR based on the relation between the DTG sensor and the CR centerline. Then, with the feedback information of the DTG sensor, a damped least-squares (DLS)-based closed-loop controller is implemented to improve the trajectory tracking performance of the CR. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, comparative experiments are performed.
A Different World: A BlackCrit Reconceptualization of Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletics
Authors: Foster Sayvon J.L. , Singer John N. , Cooper Joseph N.
Published: July 2022

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have made notable social, cultural, and economic contributions to the African Diaspora, particularly since their inception in the United States. Being that HBCU athletic programs account for a small proportion of the intercollegiate athletic industry, these unique entities are often examined in the same vein as their Historically White Institution counterparts without a full account of the intergenerational adverse impacts of systemic racism. Since HBCUs are situated within the distinct context of Blackness, the researchers offer a reconceptualization through the theoretical lens of Black Critical Theory. This manuscript illuminates linkages across extant literature, while also presenting a budding theoretical framework in the study of sport, and sport organizations, that have deeply embedded relationships with communities, for example, HBCUs and the Black community, stickball and lacrosse within Indigenous communities, and the relationship between women and womens’ sports leagues. Implications of this work are centered on promoting more critical reconceptualizations of sporting spaces that reflect the full diversity of the societies in which they exist.
Discrimination of xylene isomers in a stacked coordination polymer
Authors: Li Liangying , Guo Lidong , Olson David H. , Xian Shikai , Zhang Zhiguo , Yang Qiwei , Wu Kaiyi , Yang Yiwen , Bao Zongbi , Ren Qilong , Li Jing
Published: July 2022

The separation and purification of xylene isomers is an industrially important but challenging process. Developing highly efficient adsorbents is crucial for the implementation of simulated moving bed technology for industrial separation of these isomers. Herein, we report a stacked one-dimensional coordination polymer {[Mn(dhbq)(H
2
O)
2
], H
2
dhbq = 2,5-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoquinone} that exhibits an ideal molecular recognition and sieving of xylene isomers. Its distinct temperature-adsorbate–dependent adsorption behavior enables full separation of
p
-,
m
-, and
o
-xylene isomers in both vapor and liquid phases. The delicate stimuli-responsive swelling of the structure imparts this porous material with exceptionally high flexibility and stability, well-balanced adsorption capacity, high selectivity, and fast kinetics at conditions mimicking industrial settings. This study may offer an alternative approach for energy-efficient and adsorption-based industrial xylene separation and purification processes.
Webb telescope wows with first images
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: July 2022

Pictures showcase start of science campaign for NASA's largest space telescope
Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Modeling Framework of Autophagy in Tuberculosis: Application to Adjunctive Metformin Host-Directed Therapy
Authors: Mehta Krina , Guo Tingjie , Wallis Robert S. , van der Graaf Piet H. , van Hasselt J. G. Coen
Published: July 2022

Quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) modeling of the host immune response against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
can inform the rational design of host-directed therapies (HDTs). We aimed to develop a QSP framework to evaluate the effects of metformin-associated autophagy induction in combination with antibiotics.
Mouse Scarb2 Modulates EV-A71 Pathogenicity in Neonatal Mice
Authors: Miwatashi Wakako , Ishida Minori , Takashino Ayako , Kobayashi Kyousuke , Yamaguchi Midori , Shitara Hiroshi , Koike Satoshi
Published: July 2022

EV-A71 infects humans naturally but can also infect neonatal mice. The tissue tropism and severity of EV-A71 disease are determined by several factors, among which the virus receptor is thought to be important.
Defining the Genes Required for Survival of Mycobacterium bovis in the Bovine Host Offers Novel Insights into the Genetic Basis of Survival of Pathogenic Mycobacteria
Authors: Gibson Amanda J. , Stiens Jennifer , Passmore Ian J. , Faulkner Valwynne , Miculob Josephous , Willcocks Sam , Coad Michael , Berg Stefan , Werling Dirk , Wren Brendan W. , Nobeli Irene , Villarreal-Ramos Bernardo , Kendall Sharon L.
Published: July 2022

This is the first report of the genetic requirements of an animal-adapted member of the
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
complex (MTBC) in a natural host.
M. bovis
has devastating impacts on cattle, and bovine tuberculosis is a considerable economic, animal welfare, and public health concern. The data highlight the importance of mycobacterial cholesterol catabolism and identify several new virulence factors.
Genomic Analysis of the Serratia marcescens Bacteriophage BUCT660
Authors: Li Yahao , Han Pengjun , Pu Mingfang , Li Fei , Li Mengzhe , An Xiaoping , Song Lihua , Fan Huahao , Tong Yigang , Chen Zeliang
Published: July 2022

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of bacteriophage BUCT660, which comprises a linear double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genome of 272,720 bp and a G+C content of 47%. BUCT660 contains 316 open reading frames and 2 tRNA-encoding genes. The results of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicate that BUCT660 is a member of the family
Caudooviricetes
.
A Candidate Gene Cluster for the Bioactive Natural Product Gyrophoric Acid in Lichen-Forming Fungi
Authors: Singh Garima , Calchera Anjuli , Merges Dominik , Valim Henrique , Otte Jürgen , Schmitt Imke , Dal Grande Francesco
Published: July 2022

The implementation of natural products in the pharmaceutical industry relies on the possibility of modifying the natural product (NP) pathway to optimize yields and pharmacological effects. Characterization of genes and pathways underlying natural product biosynthesis is a major bottleneck for exploiting the medicinal properties of the natural products.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients with Delftia acidovorans Infections: a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Højgaard Signe Marie Mehl , Rezahosseini Omid , Knudsen Jenny Dahl , Fuglebjerg Natascha Josephine Ulstrand , Skov Marianne , Nielsen Susanne Dam , Harboe Zitta Barrella
Published: July 2022

Delftia acidovorans
(
D. acidovorans
) is a Gram-negative bacteria that can cause infection in immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals. The current knowledge comes mainly from case reports and case series.
Transmission of Nonconjugative Virulence or Resistance Plasmids Mediated by a Self-Transferable IncN3 Plasmid from Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Tang Bin , Liu Guitian , Wang Meng , Sun Jingyong , Tan Ruoming , Pan Tingting , Qu Jieming , Liu Jialin , Ou Hong-Yu , Qu Hongping
Published: July 2022

Nowadays, the underlying mobilization mechanism and evolutionary processes of nonconjugative virulence or resistance plasmids in
Klebsiella pneumoniae
remain poorly understood. Our study revealed the high conjugation ability of IncN3 plasmid isolated from carbapenem-resistant
K. pneumoniae
and confirmed its capability to mobilize the nonconjugative virulence or resistance plasmids.
Geon 14 to early Geon 13 granitoid magmatism in the Grenville Province of Canada, northeastern Laurentia: Distribution, geochemical patterns, and links with an active-margin setting
Authors: Indares* Aphrodite , Moukhsil Abdelali , Groulier Pierre-Arthur
Published: July 2022

Mesoproterozoic crust is widely exposed in the Grenville Province portion of northeastern Laurentia, where it is interpreted as an assemblage of two continental-arc segments separated by a composite arc belt (Quebecia) with island-arc remnants. A synthesis of the geologic context, types, and geochemical patterns of 1.5–1.35 Ga granitoids reveals a regional distribution in each segment, with dioritic to granitic plutonism variably associated with arc-related volcano-sedimentary belts in the south and inboard monzonitic to granitic plutonism in the north. In addition, belts of dioritic to granitic orthogneisses occupy intermediate positions in Quebecia and in the west. The inboard granites are consistently old in all segments (1.5–1.45 Ga), but the preserved volcano-sedimentary belts are older in the east and in Quebecia (1.5–1.45 Ga) and younger in the west (1.39? and 1.36 Ga), while the belts of orthogneisses show a large spread of ages at 1.45–1.37 Ga. Granitoids in the volcano-sedimentary belts and the orthogneisses include magnesian, calcic to calc-alkalic components to ferroan, alkali-calcic components. In contrast, the inboard plutons are dominantly ferroan and alkali-calcic to alkalic in the continental-arc segments, where they are locally associated with anorthosite-mangerite-charnockite-granite (AMCG) suites. Collectively, the different types of granitoid magmatism can be linked to an active margin, with subduction under northeastern Laurentia, involving arc building, arc rifting, back-arc opening and inboard extension, and amalgamation processes variably operating at different parts of the margin and at different times. In addition, the data provide a basis for comparison with other parts of the eastern to southwestern Laurentian margin in the 1.5–1.35 Ga time frame.
Metastatic primary gastric melanoma: a rare clinical presentation and a review of literature
Authors: Mahapatra Bikash Ranjan , Muraleedharan Anupam , Das Majumdar Saroj Kumar , Adhya Amit Kumar
Published: July 2022

Primary gastric melanoma is a rare clinical finding. It presents with upper gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, weight loss and melaena. It is often difficult to differentiate a primary gastric melanoma from primary cutaneous melanoma with gastric metastasis. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and biopsy of the lesion for histopathology and immunohistochemistry help to reach a definite diagnosis. We report a case of primary gastric melanoma with metastases to the liver and bone. The patient was treated with palliative radiotherapy, palliative chemotherapy and a bone-stabilising agent.
Subretinal deposits in young patients treated with voretigene neparvovec-rzyl for RPE65-mediated retinal dystrophy
Authors: Lopez Jennifer , Borchert Mark , Lee Thomas C , Nagiel Aaron
Published: July 2022

We report a series of three young patients (ages: 22 months, 2 years, and 5 years) who developed subretinal deposits at post-operative week one following subretinal voretigene neparvovec-rzyl treatment for RPE65-mediated retinal dystrophy. In the 5-year-old, subretinal deposits were also observed in the inferior periphery of both eyes. All three patients experienced improved visual function with treatment, and both the macular and inferior subretinal deposits have improved or resolved over the follow-up period. These findings may inform the delivery parameters and safety profile of AAV-based gene therapy as the number of retinal gene therapy trials continues to grow.
Effects of enhanced recovery after surgery plus pulmonary rehabilitation on complications after video-assisted lung cancer surgery: a multicentre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zheng Yu , Mao Mao , Li Fang , Wang Lu , Zhang Xintong , Zhang Xiu , Wang Haiming , Zhou Huiqing , Ji Meifang , Wang Yulong , Liu Liang , Zhu Quan , Reinhardt Jan D , Lu Xiao
Published: July 2022

Background

Lung cancer surgery is associated with a high incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). We evaluated whether enhanced recovery after surgery plus pulmonary rehabilitation was superior over enhanced recovery after surgery alone in reducing the incidence of postoperative PPCs and length of hospital stay.

Methods

In this pragmatic multicentre, randomised controlled, parallel-group clinical trial, eligible patients scheduled for video-assisted lung cancer surgery were randomly assigned (1:1) to either a newly developed programme that integrated preoperative and postoperative pulmonary rehabilitation components into a generic thoracic enhanced recovery after surgery pathway, or routine thoracic enhanced recovery after surgery. Primary outcome was the overall occurrence of PPCs within 2 weeks after surgery. Secondary outcomes were the occurrence of specific complications, time to removal of chest drain, and length of hospital stay (LOS).

Results

Of 428 patients scheduled for lung cancer surgery, 374 were randomised with 187 allocated to the experimental programme and 187 to control. Incidence of PPCs at 14 Days was 18.7% (35/187) in the experimental group and 33.2% (62/187) in the control group (intention-to-treat, unadjusted HR 0.524, 95% CI 0.347 to 0.792, p=0.002). Particularly, significant risk reduction was observed regarding pleural effusion, pneumonia and atelectasis. Time to removal of chest drain and LOS were not significantly reduced in the experimental group.

Conclusions

Adding pulmonary rehabilitation to enhanced recovery after surgery appears to be effective in reducing the incidence of PPCs, but not LOS. Standard integration of pulmonary rehabilitation into thoracic enhanced recovery after surgery is a promising approach to PPC prophylaxis.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR1900024646.
Complex and Beautiful: Unraveling the Intricate Communication Systems Among Plants and Insects
Authors: Tumlinson James H.
Published: July 2022

My research focuses on elucidating the chemical communication systems linking plants, herbivores, and natural enemies. My interests in integrating chemistry and agriculture led to my graduate studies in the emerging field of chemical ecology. My thesis research resulted in the identification, synthesis, and application of boll weevil sex pheromones. My research group subsequently developed chemical lures for more than 20 species of pest insects. I then shifted my focus to some of the first studies of the chemical signals produced by plants being attacked by herbivores. When insects feed, elicitors in the insects’ oral secretions, such as volicitin, a fatty acid–amino acid conjugate elicitor, stimulate plants to release volatile organic compounds. Parasitoid wasps learn to associate these species-specific volatiles with their herbivore hosts. These volatiles also prime nearby plants to activate a faster and higher defense response upon attack. Throughout my career, I have collaborated with scientists from diverse disciplines to tackle fundamental questions in chemical ecology and create innovative solutions for insect management. Our collaborative research has fundamentally changed and improved our understanding of the ongoing coevolution of plants, their herbivores, and the natural enemies that attack those herbivores.
Review—Understanding and Controlling Charge Functions in Materials for Electrochemically Mediated Water Treatment
Authors: Shen Kai , Mao Xianwen
Published: July 2022

Water management by electrochemical means has attracted increasing attention due to the high energetic efficiency and significantly improved water treatment efficacy of related emerging technologies. Charge functions in electronic and electrochemical materials dictate the overall water treatment performance such as selectivity, operation stability, removal capacity and rate. In this review, we elucidate the design principles of charge-functional materials for electrochemically mediated water treatment by considering fundamental performance-governing processes, including charge transport, surface adsorption, bulk ion insertion and (photo)electrocatalysis. Furthermore, we highlight the recent development of in situ operando imaging tools for probing these critical processes that occur during water treatment, with a particular focus on functional imaging techniques capable of probing local charge-functional parameters (e.g., charge carrier diffusivity, pollutant adsorption affinity, and redox reaction rate) to establish local structure-function relationships. We conclude this review article by pointing out the opportunities and challenges that warrant future research in order to further improve the performance and scale-up ability of electrochemical water treatment technologies in the broader context of the energy-environment nexus toward a sustainable zero-carbon future.
Modeling the Effect of Low Pt Loading Cathode Catalyst Layer in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells. Part II: Parametric Analysis
Authors: Sánchez-Ramos Arturo , Gostick Jeff T. , García-Salaberri Pablo A.
Published: July 2022

A parametric analysis is presented using a previously validated 1D model for a cathode catalyst layer (CL). The results show that maximum power density at low Pt loading can be maximized with relatively thin CLs (thickness ∼ 2 μm) featuring a high carbon volume fraction (low ionomer-to-carbon weight ratio, I/C) compared to high Pt loading CLs. The shift of the optimal carbon volume fraction (I/C ratio) is caused by the dominant role of the local oxygen transport resistance at low Pt loading, which is lowered by a reduction of the average ionomer film thickness (better ionomer distribution among carbon particles). In contrast, at high Pt loading, higher porosity and pore radius (lower carbon volume fraction) is beneficial due to an increase of bulk effective diffusivity despite thickening of ionomer films. Moreover, the results show that performance at low Pt loading is significantly improved with increasing mass-specific activity. The effect of average saturation and ionomer permeability on performance at low Pt loading is lower compared to dry CL composition and mass-specific activity.
Operando Optical Tracking of Single-Particle Ion Dynamics in Batteries
Authors: Merryweather Alice Jane , Schnedermann Christoph , Jacquet Quentin , Grey Clare P. , Rao Akshay
Published: July 2022

In order to advance lithium-ion battery technologies, particularly fast charging abilities, it is important to understand the non-equilibrium processes occurring in functioning materials under realistic conditions, in real time, and on the nano- to meso-scale. Currently, operando imaging of lithium-ion dynamics requires sophisticated synchrotron X-ray or electron microscopy methods. These techniques do not lend themselves to high-throughput material screening, and often fail to capture the behaviour of individual particles in batteries charging faster than 2C. In this work, we introduce a laboratory-based optical interferometric scattering microscope to resolve lithium-ion transport in battery materials at the single-particle level, and apply it to follow rapid cycling of the archetypical cathode material Li
x
CoO2. We directly visualise the insulator-metal, solid solution and lithium ordering phase transitions and determine rates of lithium insertion and removal from individual particles, identifying different mechanisms on charge vs. discharge. Finally, we capture the real-time formation of domain boundaries between different crystal orientations associated with the monoclinic lattice distortion at Li0.5CoO2. The high throughput nature of our methodology allows many particles to be sampled across the electrode and enables exploration of the role of defects, morphologies and cycling rate on battery degradation. The imaging concept is general and may be applied to study any active electrode material, and more broadly, any system where the transport of ions is associated with electronic or structural changes. Due to its straightforward lab-based implementation, we hope that this methodology will become an indispensable tool for high-throughput material discovery and mechanistic studies, to complement existing synchrotron-based methodologies.

References

Merryweather, A.J., Schnedermann, C., Jacquet, Q. et al. Operando optical tracking of single-particle ion dynamics in batteries. Nature
594, 522–528 (2021).