bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein Requirements Are Increased in Endurance-Trained Athletes but Similar between Females and Males during Postexercise Recovery
Authors: WILLIAMSON ERIC , FUNG HUGO J. W. , ADAMS CAROLYN , WEST DANIEL W. D. , MOORE DANIEL R.
Published: September 2023

Dietary protein supports the remodeling and recovery of lean tissue with consensus recommendations (1.2–2.0 g·kg−1·d −1), indicating that higher protein intakes are needed in trained athletes. Currently, protein intake recommendations are primarily based on research on males and typically confined to laboratory settings.

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the daily protein requirements of female and male endurance athletes in a home-based setting using noninvasive stable isotope methodology (i.e., indicator amino acid oxidation).

Methods

Eight males (30 ± 3 yr; 78.6 ± 10.5 kg; 75.6 ± 7.5 mL·kgFFM
−1·min−1; mean ± SD) and seven females (30 ± 4 yr; 57.7 ± 5.0 kg; 77.5 ± 7.1 mL·kgFFM
−1·min−1) during the midluteal phase were studied. After 2 d of controlled diet (1.4 gprotein·kg−1·d−1) and training (10 and 5 km run·d−1, respectively), participants completed a 20-km run before an at-home indicator amino acid oxidation trial testing a suboptimal, a moderate, and an excess (i.e., 0.2, 1.2, and 2.0 g·kg−1·d−1, respectively) protein intake. Protein was consumed as a crystalline amino acid mixture containing [1-13C]phenylalanine to examine whole-body phenylalanine flux and phenylalanine oxidation (PheOx; the reciprocal of whole-body protein synthesis) through breath and urine sample collection. A modified biphasic linear regression determined the breakpoint in PheOx for each participant to generate an estimated average intake that would maximize whole-body protein synthesis for each sex.

Results

PheOx was different (P < 0.01) between all protein intakes with no effect of sex (P = 0.63). Using a modified three-point curve resulted in a breakpoint that was not different (P = 0.94) between males and females (1.60 and 1.61 g·kg−1·d−1, respectively). The recommended intake (i.e., upper 95% confidence interval) was estimated to be 1.81 and 1.89 g·kg−1·d−1 for males and females, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that endurance athletes consuming a daily protein intake toward the upper end of current consensus recommendations (~1.85 g·kg−1·d−1) will maximize whole-body protein synthesis during postexercise recovery regardless of sex.
La Théorie Interprétative de la Traduction – son influence dans le monde
Authors: Lederer Marianne
Published: September 2023

INTERPRETIVE THEORY OF TRANSLATION – ITS INFLUENCE IN THE WORLD

The history of the Interpretive Theory of Translation (ITT), which began in 1968, is closely linked to Danica Seleskovitch. Under her guidance, ITT developed in two directions: research and teaching. The researchers’ interest focused on the process, studied first on conference interpretation and later on translation. Their research, later validated by psycholinguistics and cognitive science, subdivided the translation process into three stages: comprehension – deverbalization – reexpression, with deverbalization representing a departure from the linguistic theories of the time. Deverbalization is, however, an essential cognitive mechanism of any intralingual communication. The doctorate in translation studies (1974) broadened and enriche research on numerous language pairs and various text genres. The pedagogy applied at the École Supérieure d’Interprètes et de Traducteurs (ESIT) based on the principles of ITT was recognized by the European Commission and used as the basis for the European Masters in Conference Interpreting. ESIT’s many foreign students and doctors spread the theory worldwide for teaching and research. ITT’s major works have been translated into several languages.
Code and Data Repository for A Study on Optimal Release Schedule for Multiversion Software
Authors: Huang Yeu-Shiang , Fang Chih-Chiang , Chou Chun-Hsuan , Tseng Tzu-Liang (Bill)
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this repository is to share the data and codes for measuring the performance of goodness-of-fit analysis of multi-version software reliability growth models and evaluating the software testing cost under different cases. Our motivation is to present our application so that it can be easily replicated or further research can be conducted based on the analysis presented.
Code and Data Repository for Detecting Critical Nodes in Sparse Graphs via “Reduce-Solve-Combine” Memetic Search
Authors: Zhou Yangming , Li Jiaqi , Hao Jin-Kao , Glover Fred
Published: September 2023

This study considers a well-known critical node detection problem that aims to minimize a pairwise connectivity measure of an undirected graph via the removal of a subset of nodes (referred to as critical nodes) subject to a cardinality constraint. Potential applications include epidemic control, emergency response, vulnerability assessment, carbon emission monitoring, network security and drug design. To solve the problem, we present a "reduce-solve-combine" memetic search approach that integrates a problem reduction mechanism into the popular population-based memetic algorithm framework. At each generation, a common pattern mined from two parent solutions is first used to reduce the given problem instance, then the reduced instance is solved by a component-based hybrid neighborhood search that effectively combines an articulation point impact strategy and a node weighting strategy, and finally an offspring solution is produced by combining the mined common pattern and the solution of the reduced instance. Extensive evaluations on 42 real-world and synthetic benchmark instances show the efficacy of the proposed method, which discovers 9 new upper bounds and significantly outperforms the current state-of-the-art algorithms. Investigation of key algorithmic modules additionally discloses the importance of the proposed ideas and strategies. Finally, we demonstrate the generality of the proposed method via its adaptation to solve the node-weighted critical node problem.
KID-T, a unique polyherbal extract, improves feline patients with azotemia and uremia: A pilot study
Authors:   Center for Veterinary Integrative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea, Oh Wonseok , Kim Ilju ,   Center for Veterinary Integrative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea, Kim Minsu ,   Center for Veterinary Integrative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea, Baek Seung Joon ,   Center for Veterinary Integrative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
Published: September 2023

Cats with azotemia and uremia are increasingly treated with integrative and alternative treatments, including herbal medicines. KID-T (Sin-gi-hwan) is a supplement made of 100% natural herbs and contains 18 herbs, and the components were designed to improve renal function in. Feline renal patients with azotemia and uremia were recruited, and the efficacy of KID-T was examined. Four cats were treated with oral KID-T twice a day for 3 months, and blood biochemical profiles were examined to monitor the toxicity and efficacy of KID-T each month. KID-T was well-tolerated and relatively safe during the treatment period. After 3 months, ammonia, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine levels were relatively close to the normal reference range in all cats, and the urine protein–creatinine ratio decreased. Biochemical profile and clinical examination exhibited a stabilized status of renal function for 3 months. Overall, KID-T improves and maintains feline renal function, and future studies should evaluate other potential benefits of KID-T in feline renal patients, including correlative assessments of renal function, quality of life improvement, and patient-owner satisfaction.
Parasites, Viruses, and Baisetioles : Poetry as Viral Language
Authors: Mills Philip
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Austin’s (in)famous characterization of poetry as parasitical has been subject to many interpretations, from Derrida’s considering it a limit of and a central problem in Austin’s theory to Cavell’s attempt to reintegrate poetic uses of language within the framework of Ordinary Language Philosophy. In this essay, I argue that poetry, rather than being excluded from the realm of the performative, can be considered as a performative dispositif that acts upon ordinary language and, through it, upon our forms of life. To reevaluate poetry, I suggest moving from the ‘parasite’ metaphor (poetry is passively feeding on ordinary uses of language) to a ‘virus’ metaphor (poetry is actively disrupting ordinary uses of language). By building on works of French theorists and poets Christophe Hanna, Franck Leibovici, and Manuel Joseph among others, I explore how poetry reveals the virality of language.
Vertical-cavity surface-emitting phase shifter
Authors: Almutairi Dhaifallah , Johnson Karl , Smolyaninov Alexei , Grieco Andrew , Fainman Yeshaiahu
Published: September 2023

This study proposes a novel technique for a 2D beam steering system using hybrid plasmonic phase shifters with a cylindrical configuration in a 2D periodic array suitable for LIDAR applications. A nanoscale VCSEP design facilitates a sub-wavelength spacing between individual phase shifters, yielding an expanded field of view and side lobes suppression. The proposed design includes a highly doped sub-micron silicon pillar covered by a thin layer of nonlinear material and an additional conductive metal layer. Characterization of a single VCSEP demonstrated a Free Spectral Range (FSR) of 53.28 ± 2.5 nm and a transmission variation of 3 dB, with VπL equal to 0.075 V-mm.
Interferometric quantum control (IQC) by fs/ns rotational coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (RCARS)
Authors: Raveesh Meena , Dominguez Armand , Linne Mark , Bood Joakim , Hosseinnia Ali
Published: September 2023

A new rotational coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (RCARS) concept based on interferometric quantum control (IQC) is demonstrated. Two wavepackets originating from pure rotational states are created by a femtosecond stimulated rotational Raman interaction. The two Raman responses are instantly probed by a single-mode ns pulse generating two interfering RCARS polarizations. The resulting signal is an IQC-RCARS spectrum detected by a streak camera. Here we demonstrate IQC-interferograms of N2 by varying the temporal separation between the two fs pulses within a full rotational revival period, as well as signal amplification and selective detection of nuclear-spin isomers at room conditions and inside a flame.
Inverse-designed counter-tapered coupler based broadband and compact silicon mode multiplexer/demultiplexer
Authors: Jiang Weifeng , Mao Siqiang , Hu Jinzhu
Published: September 2023

A mode multiplexer/demultiplexer (MUX/DeMUX) is a crucial component for constructing mode-division multiplexing (MDM) systems. In this paper, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a wide-bandwidth and highly-integrated mode MUX/DeMUX based on an inverse-designed counter-tapered coupler. By introducing a functional region composed of subunits, efficient mode conversion and evolution can be achieved, greatly improving the mode conversion efficiency. The optimized mode MUX/DeMUX has a size of only 4 µm × 2.2 µm. An MDM-link consisting of a mode MUX and a mode DeMUX was fabricated on the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform. The experimental results show that the 3-dB bandwidth of the TE fundamental mode and first-order mode can reach 116 nm and 138 nm, respectively. The proposed mode MUX/DeMUX is scalable and could provide a feasible solution for constructing high-performance MDM systems.
Structured modulation multi-height microscopy for high-resolution imaging
Authors: Yang Liming , Lee Yujin , Wang Ruihai , Song Pengming , Candela Diego Acker , Wang Tianbo , Jiang Shaowei , Guo Chengfei , Shao Xiaopeng
Published: September 2023

Conventional multi-height microscopy techniques introduce different object-to-detector distances to obtain multiple measurements for phase retrieval. However, surpassing the diffraction limit imposed by the numerical aperture (NA) of the objective lens remains a challenging task. Here, we report a novel structured modulation multi-height microscopy technique for quantitative high-resolution imaging. In our platform, a thin diffuser is placed in between the sample and the objective lens. By translating the diffuser to different axial positions, a sequence of modulated intensity images is captured for reconstruction. The otherwise inaccessible high-resolution object information can thus be encoded into the optical system for detection. In the construction process, we report a ptychographic phase retrieval algorithm to recover the existing wavefront of the complex object. We validate our approach using a resolution target, a phase target, and various biological samples. We demonstrate a ∼4-fold resolution gain over the diffraction limit. We also demonstrate our approach to achieve a 6.5 mm by 4.3 mm field of view and a half-pitch resolution of 1.2 µm. The reported methodology provides a portable, turnkey solution for quantitative high-resolution imaging with potential applications in disease diagnosis, sample screening, and other fields.
Integrated spatial light receivers based on inverse design
Authors: Jiao Suping , Qiu Jifang , Chen Yuchen , Tao Ran , Guo Wenjie , Li Yan , Wu Jian
Published: September 2023

Photonic integrated spatial light receivers play a crucial role in free space optical (FSO) communication systems. In this paper, we propose a 4-channel and 6-channel spatial light receiver based on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) using an inverse design method, respectively. The 4-channel receiver has a square receiving area of 4.4 µm × 4.4 µm, which enables receiving four Hermite-Gaussian modes (HG00, HG01, HG10, and HG02) and converting them into fundamental transverse electric (TE00) modes with insertion losses (ILs) within 1.6∼2.1 dB and mean cross talks (MCTs) less than −16 dB, at a wavelength of 1550 nm. The 3 dB bandwidths of the four HG modes range from 28 nm to 46 nm. Moreover, we explore the impact of fabrication errors, including under/over etching and oxide thickness errors, on the performance of the designed device. Simulation results show that the 4-channel receiver is robust against fabrication errors. The designed 6-channel receiver, featuring a regular hexagon receiving area, is capable of receiving six modes (HG00, HG01, HG10, HG02, HG20, and HG11) with ILs within 2.3∼4.1 dB and MCTs less than −15 dB, at a wavelength of 1550 nm. Additionally, the receiver offers a minimum optical bandwidth of 26 nm.
Autoregressive modeling for lossless compression of holograms
Authors: Kizhakkumkara Muhamad Raees , Schretter Colas , Blinder David , Schelkens Peter
Published: September 2023

The large number of pixels to be processed and stored for digital holographic techniques necessitates the development of effective lossless compression techniques. Use cases for such techniques are archiving holograms, especially sensitive biomedical data, and improving the data transmission capacity of bandwidth-limited data transport channels where quality loss cannot be tolerated, like display interfaces. Only a few lossless compression techniques exist for holography, and the search for an efficient technique well suited for processing the large amounts of pixels typically encountered is ongoing. We demonstrate the suitability of autoregressive modeling for compressing signals with limited spatial bandwidth content, like holographic images. The applicability of such schemes for any such bandlimited signal is motivated by a mathematical insight that is novel to our knowledge. The devised compression scheme is lossless and enables decoding architecture that essentially has only two steps. It is also highly scalable, with smaller model sizes providing an effective, low-complexity mechanism to transmit holographic data, while larger models obtain significantly higher compression ratios when compared to state-of-the-art lossless image compression solutions, for a wide selection of both computer-generated and optically-acquired holograms. We also provide a detailed analysis of the various methods that can be used for determining the autoregressive model in the context of compression.
Role of beam parameters in the spin-orbit interactions of light
Authors: Tan Yawei , Chen Jie , Cheng Jiahao , Mei Wang , Zhang Zan , Ling Xiaohui
Published: September 2023

We employ a full-wave theory to systematically investigate two types of spin-orbit interactions and their topological phase transitions for various light beams (e.g., Laguerre-Gaussian, Bessel, and Bessel-Gaussian beams) at optical interfaces, and explore the influence of beam parameters on the spin-Hall shift. It is demonstrated that at small-angle incidence, the beam profile and spin-Hall shift are significantly affected by the beam parameters (e.g., waist radius, radial index, azimuthal index, and cone angle), whereas at large-angle incidence, only the azimuthal index has a salient influence on them. We further find that the Bessel beam and the Gaussian-modulated ones (i.e., Laguerre-Gaussian and Bessel-Gaussian beams) have similar topological phase transition phenomena but different shifts. Quantitative dependences of beam parameters, such as waist radius, radial index, azimuthal index, and cone angle, on the shift are also presented. Our findings offer alternative degrees of freedom in controlling the topological phase transitions of light, and suggest a valuable insight for exploring the applications of SOIs of diverse light fields.
Planar liquid crystal optics for axial focus shaping with an adjustable intensity and a high efficiency
Authors: Fu Jiakun , Yang Yang , Dai Linmao , Zhang Zhaoxing , Li Xiaochun , Luo Site , Huang Huihui
Published: September 2023

In this Letter, we report the application of planar liquid crystal (LC) devices in axial focus shaping, proving that LC diffractive optical elements (DOEs) can achieve continuous adjustment of a symmetrical axial light field by changing the ellipticity of the incident light and can flexibly and quickly achieve various axial light field designs through an axial iterative Fourier transform algorithm. The LC DOE achieves a quasi-continuous phase and an extremely high transmittance (98.6% at 1030 nm), which makes the focusing efficiency of the LC DOE with two segments of uniform focal depths as high as 84%. The experimental results demonstrate the accurate optical field shaping effect and the axial intensity adjustable ability of LC DOE, indicating potential applications in optical tomography and precision manufacturing, among others.
Detection of individual metallic nanoparticles via plasmon-mediated optomechanical coupling
Authors: Antoni Thomas , Makles Kevin , Chardin Clément , Verlot Pierre
Published: September 2023

Characterization of individual nanoparticles is a challenge due to the diffraction limit. To overcome this constraint we investigate the transfer of their optical properties to a mechanical degree of freedom of a larger object. From finite-difference time-domain computations, we estimate the mechanical frequency shift caused by metallic nanoparticles traveling through a microfluidic channel. Due to plasmonic effects we find relative shifts on the order of 1% for a 1 mW incident optical power for particles with radius ranging from 25 to 150 nm. The extreme sensitivity of this detection scheme enables real-time and in situ observation of optical dynamics at nanoscale.
Transient eco-evolutionary dynamics early in a phage epidemic have strong and lasting impact on the long-term evolution of bacterial defences
Authors: Watson Bridget Nora Janice , Pursey Elizabeth , Gandon Sylvain , Westra Edze Rients
Published: September 2023

Organisms have evolved a range of constitutive (always active) and inducible (elicited by parasites) defence mechanisms, but we have limited understanding of what drives the evolution of these orthogonal defence strategies. Bacteria and their phages offer a tractable system to study this: Bacteria can acquire constitutive resistance by mutation of the phage receptor (surface mutation, sm) or induced resistance through their CRISPR-Cas adaptive immune system. Using a combination of theory and experiments, we demonstrate that the mechanism that establishes first has a strong advantage because it weakens selection for the alternative resistance mechanism. As a consequence, ecological factors that alter the relative frequencies at which the different resistances are acquired have a strong and lasting impact: High growth conditions promote the evolution of sm resistance by increasing the influx of receptor mutation events during the early stages of the epidemic, whereas a high infection risk during this stage of the epidemic promotes the evolution of CRISPR immunity, since it fuels the (infection-dependent) acquisition of CRISPR immunity. This work highlights the strong and lasting impact of the transient evolutionary dynamics during the early stages of an epidemic on the long-term evolution of constitutive and induced defences, which may be leveraged to manipulate phage resistance evolution in clinical and applied settings.
Mathematical reconstruction of the metabolic network in an in-vitro multiple myeloma model
Authors: Vera-Siguenza Elias , Escribano-Gonzalez Cristina , Serrano-Gonzalo Irene , Eskla Kattri-Liis , Spill Fabian , Tennant Daniel
Published: September 2023

It is increasingly apparent that cancer cells, in addition to remodelling their metabolism to survive and proliferate, adapt and manipulate the metabolism of other cells. This property may be a telling sign that pre-clinical tumour metabolism studies exclusively utilising in-vitro mono-culture models could prove to be limited for uncovering novel metabolic targets able to translate into clinical therapies. Although this is increasingly recognised, and work towards addressing the issue is becoming routinary much remains poorly understood. For instance, knowledge regarding the biochemical mechanisms through which cancer cells manipulate non-cancerous cell metabolism, and the subsequent impact on their survival and proliferation remains limited. Additionally, the variations in these processes across different cancer types and progression stages, and their implications for therapy, also remain largely unexplored. This study employs an interdisciplinary approach that leverages the predictive power of mathematical modelling to enrich experimental findings. We develop a functional multicellular in-silico model that facilitates the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the metabolic network spawned by an in-vitro co-culture model of bone marrow mesenchymal stem- and myeloma cell lines. To procure this model, we devised a bespoke human genome constraint-based reconstruction workflow that combines aspects from the legacy mCADRE & Metabotools algorithms, the novel redHuman algorithm, along with 13C-metabolic flux analysis. Our workflow transforms the latest human metabolic network matrix (Recon3D) into two cell-specific models coupled with a metabolic network spanning a shared growth medium. When cross-validating our in-silico model against the in-vitro model, we found that the in-silico model successfully reproduces vital metabolic behaviours of its in-vitro counterpart; results include cell growth predictions, respiration rates, as well as support for observations which suggest cross-shuttling of redox-active metabolites between cells.
Saturation genome editing of 11 codons and exon 13 of BRCA2 coupled with chemotherapeutic drug response accurately determines pathogenicity of variants
Authors: Sahu Sounak , Sullivan Teresa L. , Mitrophanov Alexander Y. , Galloux Mélissa , Nousome Darryl , Southon Eileen , Caylor Dylan , Mishra Arun Prakash , Evans Christine N. , Clapp Michelle E. , Burkett Sandra , Malys Tyler , Chari Raj , Biswas Kajal , Sharan Shyam K.
Published: September 2023

The unknown pathogenicity of a significant number of variants found in cancer-related genes is attributed to limited epidemiological data, resulting in their classification as variant of uncertain significance (VUS). To date, Breast Cancer gene-2 (BRCA2) has the highest number of VUSs, which has necessitated the development of several robust functional assays to determine their functional significance. Here we report the use of a humanized-mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC) line expressing a single copy of the human BRCA2 for a CRISPR-Cas9-based high-throughput functional assay. As a proof-of-principle, we have saturated 11 codons encoded by BRCA2 exons 3, 18, 19 and all possible single-nucleotide variants in exon 13 and multiplexed these variants for their functional categorization. Specifically, we used a pool of 180-mer single-stranded donor DNA to generate all possible combination of variants. Using a high throughput sequencing-based approach, we show a significant drop in the frequency of non-functional variants, whereas functional variants are enriched in the pool of the cells. We further demonstrate the response of these variants to the DNA-damaging agents, cisplatin and olaparib, allowing us to use cellular survival and drug response as parameters for variant classification. Using this approach, we have categorized 599 BRCA2 variants including 93-single nucleotide variants (SNVs) across the 11 codons, of which 28 are reported in ClinVar. We also functionally categorized 252 SNVs from exon 13 into 188 functional and 60 non-functional variants, demonstrating that saturation genome editing (SGE) coupled with drug sensitivity assays can enhance functional annotation of BRCA2 VUS.
The epidemiology of khat (catha edulis) chewing and alcohol consumption among pregnant women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wogayehu Biruk , Demissie Tsegaye , Wolka Eskinder , Alemayehu Mekuriaw , Daka Kassa
Published: September 2023

The use of khat (Catha edulis) and alcohol during pregnancy is a serious public health problem that has been associated with a number of harmful outcomes for both the fetus and the mother’s health. There has been no systematic review with meta-analysis to determine risk factors associated with khat and alcohol use among pregnant women in Ethiopia. Therefore, we aimed to determine the pooled prevalence and risk factors of khat and alcohol use during pregnancy in Ethiopia. This review has been registered in PROSPERO with protocol ID: CRD42023395115. Studies identified from PubMed, Google Scholar, the WHO African Index Medicus, the Cochrane Library, African Journal Online, and Science Direct. Articles published from January 1, 2000 to February 10, 2023 were included. We searched for articles that included any combination of the following key terms: “khat”, “qat”, “alcohol”, “ethanol”, “prevalence”, “factors”, “pregnant” and “Ethiopia”. Two reviewers worked independently to screen studies and extract data. A funnel plot and Egger’s regression test were used to test publication bias. A forest plot was used to present the pooled prevalence and odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) using the random effect model. I2 metrics were used to assess heterogeneity. The meta-analysis was carried out with Stata 14.0 software. Nine hundred sixty-two records were retrieved from different sources, and 23 studies were included in the final analysis. The pooled prevalence of khat use and alcohol drinking during pregnancy was 26.6% (95% CI 17.8, 35.5) and 31.65% (95% CI: 21.8, 41.5), respectively. Partner khat use (OR 5.9 [95% CI (2.4, 14.5)]) was associated factor for khat use during pregnancy. Low educational level (OR 2.54 [95% CI (1.8, 3.5)]), pre-pregnancy alcohol use (OR 3.5 [95% CI (2.6, 4.7)]), unplanned pregnancy (OR 2.7 [95% CI (1.8, 4.0)]), history of abortion (OR 2.3 [95% CI (1.4, 3.7)]), poor social support (OR 3.3 [95% CI (2.0, 5.3)]), and mental distress (OR 2.6 [95% CI (2.0, 3.3)]) were associated factors for alcohol drinking during pregnancy. This review indicated that the magnitude of khat and alcohol use during pregnancy in Ethiopia was high. Targeted interventions for groups of pregnant women at high risk of khat and alcohol use are urgently needed. Community-based health education interventions and point-of-sale warnings are essential to reduce the burden. Future studies should consider the influence of community-level factors on khat and alcohol use during pregnancy.
Genome-informed investigation of the molecular evolution and genetic reassortment of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus
Authors: Lee Kyuyoung , Seok Jong Hyeon , Kim Hyunbeen , Park Sejik , Lee Sohyun , Bae Joon-Yong , Jeon Kyeongseok , Kang Jun-Gu , Yoo Jeong Rae , Heo Sang Taek , Cho Nam-Hyuk , Lee Keun Hwa , Kim Kisoon , Park Man-Seong , Kim Jin Il
Published: September 2023

Background

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is a viral pathogen causing significant clinical signs from mild fever with thrombocytopenia to severe hemorrhages. World Health Organization has paid special attention to the dramatic increase in human SFTS cases in China, Japan, and South Korea since the 2010s. The present study investigated the molecular evolution and genetic reassortment of SFTSVs using complete genomic sequences.

Methods/Principal finding

We collected the complete genome sequences of SFTSVs globally isolated until 2019 (L segment, n = 307; M segment, n = 326; and S segment, n = 564) and evaluated the evolutionary profiles of SFTSVs based on phylogenetic and molecular selection pressure analyses. By employing a time-scaled Bayesian inference method, we found the geographical heterogeneity of dominant SFTSV genotypes in China, Japan, and South Korea around several centuries before and locally spread by tick-born spillover with infrequent long-distance transmission. Purifying selection predominated the molecular evolution of SFTSVs with limited gene reassortment and fixed substitution, but almost all three gene segments appeared to harbor at least one amino acid residue under positive selection. Specifically, the nonstructural protein and glycoprotein (Gn/Gc) genes were preferential selective targets, and the Gn region retained the highest number of positively selected residues.

Conclusion/Significance

Here, the large-scale genomic analyses of SFTSVs improved prior knowledge of how this virus emerged and evolved in China, Japan, and South Korea. Our results highlight the importance of SFTSV surveillance in both human and non-human reservoirs at the molecular level to fight against fatal human infection with the virus.
Pre-analytical variables influence zinc measurement in blood samples
Authors: Killilea David W. , Schultz Kathleen
Published: September 2023

Zinc deficiency continues to be a major concern for global public health. The zinc status of a target population is typically estimated by measuring circulating zinc levels, but the sampling procedures are not standardized and thus may result in analytical discrepancies. To examine this, we designed a study that controlled most of the technical parameters in order to focus on five pre-analytical variables reported to influence the measurement of zinc in blood samples, including (1) blood draw site (capillary or venous), (2) blood sample matrix (plasma or serum), (3) blood collection tube manufacturer (Becton, Dickinson and Company or Sarstedt AG & Co), (4) blood processing time (0, 4, or 24 hours), and (5) blood holding temperatures (4°C, 20°C, or 37°C). A diverse cohort of 60 healthy adults were recruited to provide sequential capillary and venous blood samples, which were carefully processed under a single chain of custody and measured for zinc content using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. When comparing blood draw sites, the mean zinc content of capillary samples was 0.054 mg/L (8%; p<0.0001) higher than venous blood from the same donors. When comparing blood sample matrices, the mean zinc content of serum samples was 0.029 mg/L (5%; p<0.0001) higher than plasma samples from the same donors. When comparing blood collection tube manufacturer, the mean zinc content from venous blood samples did not differ between venders, but the mean zinc content from BD capillary plasma was 0.036 mg/L (6%; p<0.0001) higher than Sarstedt capillary plasma from the same donors. When comparing processing times, the mean zinc content of plasma and serum samples was 5–12% higher (p<0.0001) in samples processed 4–24 hour after collection. When comparing holding temperatures, the mean zinc content of plasma and serum samples was 0.5–7% higher (p = 0.0007 or p = 0.0061, respectively) in samples temporarily held at 20°C or 37°C after collection. Thus even with the same donors and blood draws, significant differences in zinc content were observed with different draw sites, tube types, and processing procedures, demonstrating that key pre-analytic variables can have an impact on zinc measurement, and subsequent classification of zinc status. Minimizing these pre-analytical variables is important for generating best practice guidelines for assessment of zinc status.
Damage evolution and constitutive model of the rock masses with non-penetrating cracks under repeated impact loading
Authors: Zhang Jie , Wu Xu
Published: September 2023

A large number of cracks exist in natural rock masses, which significantly affects the stability of surrounding rocks in engineering under impact loading. Repeated impact tests by Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar are performed on non-penetrating cracked granite specimens with different prefabricated-crack inclination angles (0, 30, 45, 60, and 90°). The damage evolution law of cracked rock under repeated impact loading is investigated. Macroscopic damage variables considering geometric and mechanical parameters of cracks are proposed. Further, a constitutive model for the impact loading test is developed based on the coupling damage. It has been found that, the impact resistance of fractured rock first decreases and then increases with the increased prefabricated-crack inclination angle. The impact resistance for specimens with an inclination angle of 45° is the minimum. Theoretical results from the developed model agree with the experimental data. The model could well describe the progressive damage characteristics of cracked rock masses.
Genetic diversity and structure in two epiphytic orchids from the montane forests of southern Ecuador: The role of overcollection on Masdevallia rosea in comparison with the widespread Pleurothallis lilijae
Authors: Riofrío María , Naranjo Carlos , Mendoza Alberto , Draper David , Marques Isabel
Published: September 2023

Ecuador has a high diversity of orchids, but little is known about levels of genetic diversity for the great majority of species. Understanding how orchids might adapt to changes is crucial as deforestation and fragmentation of forest ecosystems threaten the survival of many epiphytic orchids that depend on other species, such as fungi and their host trees, for germination, growth, and establishment. Overcollection and the illegal trade are also major concerns for the survival of wild populations of orchids. Despite increasing awareness, effective interventions are often limited by a lack of data concerning the impacts that overexploitation might have. To fill this gap, we tested the effects of overcollection in the genetic diversity and structure of Masdevallia rosea, a narrow distributed epiphytic orchid historically collected in Ecuador, in comparison with the widely distributed Pleurothallis lilijae. Genotyping based on AFLPs showed reduced levels of diversity in wild populations but most especially in the overcollected, M. rosea. Overall, genetic admixture was high in P. lilijae segregating populations by altitude levels while fewer genetic groups were found in M. rosea. Genetic differentiation was low in both species. A spatial genetic structure was found in P. lilijae depending on altitude levels, while no spatial genetic structure was found in M. rosea. These results suggest different scenarios for the two species: while gene flow over long distance is possible in P. lilijae, the same seems to be unlikely in M. rosea possibly due to the low levels of individuals in the known populations. In situ and ex situ conservation strategies should be applied to protect the genetic pool in these epiphytic orchid species, and to promote the connectivity between wild populations. Adopting measures to reduce overexploitation and to understand the impacts of harvesting in wild populations are necessary to strengthen the legal trade of orchids.
Effects of CBD (Cannabidiol) on the physiology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromisn niloticus) as a chronic stress mitigating agent In-vivo
Authors: Mortuza Asif , Fahim Nahian , Ahmed Malaika , Mustafa Ahmed
Published: September 2023

This study evaluates the effects of Cannabidiol (CBD) on the physiology of stressed and non-stressed Nile tilapia, reared in a recirculating aquaculture system. Tilapia were fed with and without CBD (0.001% of feed weight) and with and without hydrocortisone stress hormone (0.01% of body weight) every day for four weeks. This experiment compared the plasma cortisol, blood glucose and protein levels, liver and spleen somatic indices (HSI and SSI, respectively), and lysozyme activity of the fish. Stress group (S) had a significantly higher value than the control group (C) in two of the parameters, glucose and lysozyme activity, this is an indication of stress. CBD had a stress reducing effect under stressed conditions in lysozyme activity. Although not significant, the stress reducing effect of CBD on stress biomarkers such as glucose and HSI also seemed promising. Further investigation into the matter may not just be useful in stress mediation in aquatic organisms but may also have implications in human medicine as well.
Inferring interactions in multispecies communities: The cryptocurrency market case
Authors: Brigatti E. , Rocha Grecco V. , Hernández A. R. , Bertella M. A.
Published: September 2023

We introduce a general framework for empirically detecting interactions in communities of entities characterized by different features. This approach is inspired by ideas and methods coming from ecology and finance and is applied to a large dataset extracted from the cryptocurrency market. The inter-species interaction network is constructed using a similarity measure based on the log-growth rate of the capitalizations of the cryptocurrency market. The detected relevant interactions are only of the cooperative type, and the network presents a well-defined clustered structure, with two practically disjointed communities. The first one is made up of highly capitalized cryptocurrencies that are tightly connected, and the second one is made up of small-cap cryptocurrencies that are loosely linked. This approach based on the log-growth rate, instead of the conventional price returns, seems to enhance the discriminative potential of the network representation, highlighting a modular structure with compact communities and a rich hierarchy that can be ascribed to different functional groups. In fact, inside the community of the more capitalized coins, we can distinguish between clusters composed of some of the more popular first-generation cryptocurrencies, and clusters made up of second-generation cryptocurrencies. Alternatively, we construct the network of directed interactions by using the partial correlations of the log-growth rate. This network displays the important centrality of Bitcoin, discloses a core cluster containing a branch with the most capitalized first-generation cryptocurrencies, and emphasizes interesting correspondences between the detected direct pair interactions and specific features of the related currencies. As risk strongly depends on the interaction structure of the cryptocurrency system, these results can be useful for assisting in hedging risks. The inferred network topology suggests fewer probable widespread contagions. Moreover, as the riskier coins do not strongly interact with the others, it is more difficult that they can drive the market to more fragile states.
Nicotinamide restores tissue NAD+ and improves survival in rodent models of cardiac arrest
Authors: Zhu Xiangdong , Li Jing , Wang Huashan , Gasior Filip M. , Lee Chunpei , Lin Shaoxia , Justice Cody N. , O’Donnell J. Michael , Vanden Hoek Terry L.
Published: September 2023

Metabolic suppression in the ischemic heart is characterized by reduced levels of NAD+ and ATP. Since NAD+ is required for most metabolic processes that generate ATP, we hypothesized that nicotinamide restores ischemic tissue NAD+ and improves cardiac function in cardiomyocytes and isolated hearts, and enhances survival in a mouse model of cardiac arrest. Mouse cardiomyocytes were exposed to 30 min simulated ischemia and 90 min reperfusion. NAD+ content dropped 40% by the end of ischemia compared to pre-ischemia. Treatment with 100 μM nicotinamide (NAM) at the start of reperfusion completely restored the cellular level of NAD+ at 15 min of reperfusion. This rescue of NAD+ depletion was associated with improved contractile recovery as early as 10 min post-reperfusion. In a mouse model of cardiac arrest, 100 mg/kg NAM administered IV immediately after cardiopulmonary resuscitation resulted in 100% survival at 4 h as compared to 50% in the saline group. In an isolated rat heart model, the effect of NAM on cardiac function was measured for 20 min following 18 min global ischemia. Rate pressure product was reduced by 26% in the control group following arrest. Cardiac contractile function was completely recovered with NAM treatment given at the start of reperfusion. NAM restored tissue NAD+ and enhanced production of lactate and ATP, while reducing glucose diversion to sorbitol in the heart. We conclude that NAM can rapidly restore cardiac NAD+ following ischemia and enhance glycolysis and contractile recovery, with improved survival in a mouse model of cardiac arrest.
Dynamic analysis of the subsea production system with lazy-wave risers attached to FPSO
Authors: Zhang Dapeng , Zhao Bowen , Zhu Keqiang , Jiang Haoyu
Published: September 2023

The lazy-wave riser is an input and output riser for a flexible development system, which is widely used in all the riser and pipeline systems. Because of the influence of various factors, its configuration description, control and motion which have a strong nonlinear character are complex during the running process of the lazy-wave riser. Reference to the specific structure and environmental parameters of a certain lazy-wave risers system with a 300 thousand tons FPSO, with the basis of the specific process of the flexible riser system at work, the lazy-wave risers were discretized into lumped mass models, combined with AQWA, the simplified dynamic model of the whole system at the depth of 2100m has been established by the large hydrodynamic analysis software OrcaFlex. The dynamic response characteristics of the lazy-wave risers have been given by using time domain coupling method. With and without the consideration of the 2nd wave drift load in the simulation process, the effects of the 2nd wave drift load on the results are obtained. The simulation results reveal the difficulty of simulation convergence caused by a large number of risers and flexible components. The 2nd order wave drift loads have a significant effect on the riser system, resulting in the increasement of the effective tension at each end of each riser. To counteract the magnitude of the FPSO response caused by such loads, the number of mooring lines needed to be increased or combined with dynamic positioning techniques to optimize the design.
Economic evaluation of prenatal screening for fetal aneuploidies in Thailand
Authors: Wongkrajang Preechaya , Jittikoon Jiraphun , Udomsinprasert Wanvisa , Talungchit Pattarawalai , Sangroongruangsri Sermsiri , Turongkaravee Saowalak , Chaikledkaew Usa
Published: September 2023

Historically, there has been a lack of cost-effectiveness data regarding the inclusion of universal non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for trisomy 21, 18, and 13 in the benefit package of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Thailand. Therefore, this study aimed to perform the cost-benefit analysis of prenatal screening tests and calculate the budget impact that would result from the implementation of a universal NIPT program. A decision-tree model was employed to evaluate cost and benefit of different prenatal chromosomal abnormalities screenings: 1) first-trimester screening (FTS), 2) NIPT, and 3) definitive diagnostic (amniocentesis). The comparison was made between these screenings and no screening in three groups of pregnant women: all ages, < 35 years, and ≥ 35 years. The analysis was conducted from societal and governmental perspectives. The costs comprised direct medical, direct non-medical, and indirect costs, while the benefit was cost-avoidance associated with caring for children with trisomy and the loss of productivity for caregivers. Parameter uncertainties were evaluated through one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. From a governmental perspective, all three methods were found to be cost-beneficial. Among them, FTS was identified as the most cost-beneficial, especially for pregnant women aged ≥ 35 years. From a societal perspective, the definitive diagnostic test was not cost-effective, but the other two screening tests were. The most sensitive parameters for FTS and NIPT strategies were the productivity loss of caregivers and the incidence of trisomy 21. Our study suggested that NIPT was the most cost-effective strategy in Thailand, if the cost was reduced to 47 USD. This evidence-based information can serve as a crucial resource for policymakers when making informed decisions regarding the allocation of resources for prenatal care in Thailand and similar context.
Why do you choose this program?—A decision-making model of medical students based on grounded theory
Authors: Wang Yan , He Shutong , Chen Yanmin
Published: September 2023

Background

This study aims to investigate the reasons behind the decline in the number of applicants and dropouts from N University’s reformed program, which includes increased research experience, an optimized curriculum, and other benefits. The ultimate goal is to identify areas for improvement and make the program more appealing to potential students.

Methods

This study utilized the Grounded Theory approach, conducting semi-structured in-depth interviews and applying data collection, coding, and the constant comparative method. As a result, a decision-making model for college students was constructed.

Results

Following the initial stages of individual expectation formation, which include inducement and self-efficacy, and the subsequent stage of value assessment, individuals reach a decision. Throughout this process, the individual’s circumstances and surroundings continue to influence their decision-making. Additionally, the decision-making procedure follows a Hierarchy Pyramid of Educational Needs. Our findings show that job prospects and continuing education are the primary factors influencing interviewees’ decisions. However, it is important to note that individuals may place varying levels of importance on these factors. Additionally, the preferences and priorities of teachers, such as their commitment to research guidance, curriculum development, and maintaining fairness in examinations, can also play a role in shaping these decisions.

Conclusion

To attract more talented individuals to research-oriented programs, universities should provide more job and higher education opportunities, reform the curriculum thoroughly, and enhance teachers’ teaching devotion.