bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA methylation controlling abscisic acid catabolism responds to light to mediate strawberry fruit ripening
Authors: Sun Yunfan , Yang Xiaofang , Wu Rongrong , Lv Shouzheng , Li Yunduan , Jia Haoran , Yang Yuying , Li Baijun , Chen Wenbo , Allan Andrew C. , Jiang Guihua , Shi Yan‐Na , Chen Kunsong
Published: June 2024

Phytohormones, epigenetic regulation and environmental factors regulate fruit ripening but their interplay during strawberry fruit ripening remains to be determined. In this study, bagged strawberry fruit exhibited delayed ripening compared with fruit grown in normal light, correlating with reduced abscisic acid (ABA) accumulation. Transcription of the key ABA catabolism gene, ABA 8′‐hydroxylase FaCYP707A4, was induced in bagged fruit. With light exclusion whole genome DNA methylation levels were up‐regulated, corresponding to a delayed ripening process, while DNA methylation levels in the promoter of FaCYP707A4 were suppressed, correlating with increases in transcript and decreased ABA content. Experiments indicated FaCRY1, a blue light receptor repressed in bagged fruit and FaAGO4, a key protein involved in RNA‐directed DNA methylation, could bind to the promoter of FaCYP707A4. The interaction between FaCRY1 and FaAGO4, and an increased enrichment of FaAGO4 directed to the FaCYP707A4 promoter in fruit grown under light suggests FaCRY1 may influence FaAGO4 to modulate the DNA methylation status of the FaCYP707A4 promoter. Furthermore, transient overexpression of FaCRY1, or an increase in FaCRY1 transcription by blue light treatment, increases the methylation level of the FaCYP707A4 promoter, while transient RNA interference of FaCRY1 displayed opposite phenotypes. These findings reveal a mechanism by which DNA methylation influences ABA catabolism, and participates in light‐mediated strawberry ripening.
Hydrous shear zones are sites of melt transfer in the lower arc crust: A case study from Fiordland, New Zealand
Authors: Chatterjee Aditi , Daczko Nathan R. , Dey Joyjit , Piazolo Sandra
Published: June 2024

Recent studies of the Cretaceous lower arc crust exposed in Fiordland, New Zealand, conclude that shear zones are sites of melt migration and mass transfer through the deep crust. Here, we investigate the 4–10 km‐wide George Sound Shear Zone, which cuts the Western Fiordland Orthogneiss, comprising two main rock types: two‐pyroxene gneiss and hornblende gneiss. Previous studies infer a predominantly igneous origin for the two types of gneiss. However, this study finds that melt‐rock interaction within the George Sound Shear Zone formed the hornblende gneiss from the precursor two‐pyroxene gneiss. Petrographic analyses of samples collected in transects across the shear zone show hydration reaction textures ranging from rims of hornblende + quartz around pyroxene grains to complete replacement of pyroxene grains. Plagioclase is recrystallized and partially replaced by clinozoisite. Additionally, biotite mode increases towards the higher strain rocks in the shear zone. Backscatter images and polarized light microscopy show microstructures indicative of former melt‐present deformation, including (a) interconnected mineral films of quartz and K‐feldspar along grain boundaries, (b) grains that terminate with low apparent dihedral angles, (c) interstitial grains, with some (d) undulose extinction in plagioclase and (e) serrated grain boundaries. In addition, zircon microstructures are consistent with Zr mobility, further supporting the former presence of melt; geochemical data show enrichment of Zr in the hornblende gneiss as compared to the two‐pyroxene gneiss. From the above observations, it is inferred that a felsic to intermediate hydrous melt migrated through the George Sound Shear Zone reacting with the host two‐pyroxene gneiss of the Western Fiordland Orthogneiss. Melt migration along grain boundaries was deformation assisted, (i) causing hydration of pyroxene to hornblende + quartz, and plagioclase to clinozoisite, (ii) increasing proportions of biotite within the shear zone and (iii) causing depletion of Cr + Ni and Zr enrichment in the hydrated rock. Our interpretation is supported by published observations of pegmatite dyke swarms that intruded into the George Sound Shear Zone, the P‐T conditions of deformation and characterization of microstructures that contrast sharply with those typically found in mylonitic rocks formed under solid‐state metamorphic conditions. Our results confirm that hydrous shear zones within otherwise anhydrous country rock are retrogressive and may represent evidence of melt migration through zones of deformation.
Compliance analysis of oral nutritional supplements in hospitalized postsurgical patients with colorectal cancer: A prospective study
Authors: Chen Yilin , Xian Xuemei , Zhu Chenping , Huang Binbin , Kuang Yuanyuan , Xu Didi
Published: June 2024

Purpose

There are few reports on compliance with oral nutritional supplements (ONS) after surgery in hospitalized patients. This study aimed to investigate the compliance with ONS and its influencing factors after surgery in colorectal cancer patients.

Methods

STROBE checklist was used during the preparation of this paper. A total of 103 postoperative colorectal cancer patients were selected from November 2020 to April 2021 from the Department of Anorectal Surgery in our institution, which is a tertiary hospital in Hangzhou, China. The compliance with ONS was recorded by a self‐record sheet, and sociodemographic and disease‐related information of these patients was gathered through a self‐designed questionnaire.

Results

The overall ONS compliance rate of patients with colorectal cancer was 57.6%. Results of univariate analysis revealed that ONS compliance rate was related to sex, admission body mass index, abdominal distension, attitude towards ONS, and satisfaction with ONS. Multi‐factor analysis showed that age, sex, and perceived benefits of nutrition therapy independently influenced the ONS compliance rate.

Conclusions

The postoperative ONS compliance rate of colorectal cancer patients needs to be further improved. Healthcare professionals should pay more attention to the postoperative ONS compliance and acknowledging the influence of age, gender, and attitudes towards ONS on ONS compliance. Notably, patients' perspectives towards ONS play a crucial and modifiable role in determining ONS compliance. Nurses ought to assist patients in cultivating a positive attitude towards ONS.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Dosage form and delivery method are also influence factors that deserves further exploration in the future. Future research endeavours should endeavour to craft tailored, meticulous nutritional intervention strategies tailored to the diverse factors that influence ONS compliance, ultimately leading to enhanced ONS adherence. Our findings could serve as valuable evidence for the development of strategies aimed at enhancing ONS usage practices.
Does combining oro‐facial manual therapy with bruxism neuroscience education affect pain and function in cases of awake bruxism? A pilot study
Authors: von Piekartz Harry , Bleiss Sonja , Herzer Sebastian , Hall Toby , Ballenberger Nicolaus
Published: June 2024

Background

Although awake bruxism is associated with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) as well as head and neck pain, the effects of physical therapy and bruxism education to address these factors have not been investigated.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of oro‐facial manual therapy and bruxism neuroscience education (BNE) on awake bruxism over a 3‐week period with an open‐ended follow‐up questionnaire after 3 months.

Methods

Subjects (n = 28) were randomly allocated to one of two groups, an intervention group and a control group. Data regarding disability, function and pain were collected pre‐ and post‐assessment, with all measures administered in a single‐blind fashion. Participants in both groups received six treatment sessions during this period. In addition to manual therapy, participants were provided with information on the neurophysiological mechanisms of bruxism and contributing factors. Individual behavioural guidelines and daily exercises were determined in consultation with the therapist. An introduction to a bruxism specific app (Brux.App) was also provided, which all participants used as an adjunct to their treatment.

Results

The intervention group demonstrated notable improvement as indicated by their scores in the Neck Disability Index (NDI) (p = .008), Pain Disability Index (PDI) (p = .007) and Jaw Disability List (JDL) (p = .03). Furthermore, clinical assessments of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) revealed a significant progress in terms of mouth opening (p = .03) and lateral jaw movement (laterotrusion) (p = .03). The mechanical pain threshold (PTT) of both the masseter (p = .02) and temporalis muscle (p = .05) also showed significant improvement. At 3‐month follow‐up, the questionnaire revealed that the majority of the intervention group (13/15, 87%) reported a benefit from the treatment.

Conclusion

The reduction in pain and disability together with improvement in function and increased coping suggest a potential modification of awake bruxism through specialised musculoskeletal intervention and BNE tailored to the individual patient.
Interpretation in reverse: Remixing the Three Kingdoms
Authors: Wang Yiwen
Published: June 2024

This article investigates online fan video remixes that combine footage from the televisual adaptation of the Chinese classic The Romance of Three Kingdoms, set in ancient China, with soundtracks from the American science fiction film Inception (2010) and the magical fantasy Pirates of the Caribbean (2011). Analyzing the audio‐visual aesthetics of these videos, I propose a reversal of Henry Jenkins's “additive comprehension” framework, which suggests that fan works aim to interpret and complete the original story‐verse. Instead, I argue these videos reverse the process of interpretation through temporal–spatial transportation and corporeal transfiguration with false continuity editing, acousmatic aesthetics, and gravitational disorientation.
Sensitivity of Hevea brasiliensis clones to isolates representing distinct races of the Corynespora cassiicola pathogen
Authors: Justine Mitha , Thottathil Gincy P. , Chang Li Ying , Lui Xin Jie , Kamerkar Urwashi Pushpak , Sudesh Kumar
Published: June 2024

Corynespora leaf fall disease caused by the fungus Corynespora cassiicola is a major leaf disease of Hevea brasiliensis, the commercial source of natural rubber. Different clones of H. brasiliensis show varying levels of sensitivity towards different strains of C. cassiicola. The genetic mechanism behind the differential sensitivity of H. brasiliensis clones has to be identified in order to develop clones resistant to wider range of C. cassiicola strains. The available information on the sensitivity of H. brasiliensis clones is based on the observation of natural infection or infection of detached leaves. In the present study, the sensitivity of seven H. brasiliensis clones towards two strains of C. cassiicola belonging to two different races was determined using a more precise method by artificial infection of the plants under controlled conditions. Strain CLN 16 was found to be more virulent compared with CSB 16, as it induced more severe symptoms in a shorter period. Among the four different stages of leaves, Stage II leaves with copper brown to apple green colour showed higher sensitivity to both strains followed by Stage III leaves with apple green appearance. Among the clones, RRIM 600 had a higher susceptibility towards CSB 16; however, it was the most resistant clone towards CLN 16. Clone PB 350 showed the highest susceptibility towards CLN 16 whereas RRIM 928 showed the highest resistance towards CSB 16. The present study provides a platform for further studies leading to the development of H. brasiliensis clones with resistance towards wider range of C. cassiicola strains.
Identification of Elsinoë phaseoli causing bean scab in Kenya and evaluation of sporulation using five adapted techniques
Authors: Masheti Y. O. , Muthomi J. W. , Muiru W. M. , Arunga E. E. , Gepts P.
Published: June 2024

This research addresses the presence of Elsinoë phaseoli in Kenya, where information on the biology of this pathogen remains scarce. Employing a multifaceted approach, the study demonstrates the steps taken to isolate, identify, and characterize E. phaseoli as the pathogen responsible for scab on common bean. Field observations confirmed scab symptoms, particularly the prominent pod lesions. Elsinoë phaseoli was isolated from common bean using a targeted streaking method on older acervulus‐bearing lesions. Morphological examinations revealed a notable diversity within E. phaseoli colonies, consistent with the characteristics of the genus. Molecular identification through ITS‐rDNA sequencing confirmed isolate AscoSK1 obtained in this study as belonging to E. phaseoli, offering a robust species differentiation method. Assessing conidium production required the implementation of five different culture methods. An adaptation of the Scheper et al. (2013) method yielded the highest quantity of conidia from 25 colonies spaced at 1 cm apart, with a conidial yield of 5.0 × 106 conidia per 9‐cm‐diameter Petri dish. A higher conidial yield was attained after the colonies were pre‐incubated on potato dextrose agar in the dark at room temperature for 28 days, followed by a transfer to corn meal agar for an additional 2 days at 20°C. This emphasizes the pivotal influence of incubation duration and pre‐culture conditions on the process. This research provides insights into the biology of E. phaseoli and introduces an improved method for enhancing in vitro sporulation of the pathogen, setting groundwork for future research and handling.
Cervicofacial Actinomycosis: Detection and follow‐up through ultrasound image
Authors: Figueiredo Pedro Henrique Almeida , de Sousa Rafael Aguiar , Naves Marcelo Drummond , de Carvalho Rocha Tânia , Silva Micena Roberta Miranda Alves e
Published: June 2024

Aim

To demonstrate a case of Actinomyces infection in which ultrasound was used as a diagnostic aid tool.

Materials and Methods

Description of a case of cervicofacial actinomycosis in a patient, whose treatment and long‐term evaluation were performed using ultrasound, a crucial tool to ensure accuracy and real‐time images, without exposing the patient to radiation, contributing to the success of treatment.

Results

In the case of actinomycosis, the ultrasound findings consisted of hyperechoic foci surrounded by hypoechoic areas.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography plays a broad role in dentistry, being able to assist in diagnosis, guided surgical interventions and post‐treatment monitoring. Furthermore, ultrasound is an accessible and portable examination that can be used at the patient's bedside, especially in critical cases, proving to be a promising tool in clinical management in a hospital environment.
A pattern for the early, middle, and late phase of tea chrysanthemum response to Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Li Wenjie , Wang Mengqi , Liu Ye , Zhan Qingling , Jing Ruyue , Song Aiping , Zhao Shuang , Wang Likai , Jiang Jiafu , Chen Sumei , Chen Fadi , Guan Zhiyong
Published: June 2024

Chrysanthemum morifolium is cultivated worldwide and has high ornamental, tea, and medicinal value. With the increasing area of chrysanthemum cultivation and years of continuous cropping, Fusarium wilt disease frequently occurs in various production areas, seriously affecting the quality and yield and causing huge economic losses. However, the molecular response mechanism of Fusarium wilt infection remains unclear, which limits the molecular breeding process for disease resistance in chrysanthemums. In the present study, we analyzed the molecular response mechanisms of ‘Huangju,’ one of the tea chrysanthemum cultivars severely infested with Fusarium wilt in the field at the early, middle, and late phases of F. oxysporum infestation. ‘Huangju’ responded to the infestation mainly through galactose metabolism, plant‐pathogen interaction, auxin, abscisic acid, and ethylene signalling in the early phase; galactose metabolism, plant‐pathogen interaction, auxin, salicylic acid signal, and certain transcription factors (e.g., CmWRKY48) in the middle phase; and galactose metabolism in the late phase. Notably, the galactose metabolism was important in the early, middle, and late phases of ‘Huangju’ response to F. oxysporum. Meanwhile, the phytohormone auxin was involved in the early and middle responses. Furthermore, silencing of CmWRKY48 in ‘Huangju’ resulted in resistance to F. oxysporum. Our results revealed a new molecular pattern for chrysanthemum in response to Fusarium wilt in the early, middle, and late phases, providing a foundation for the molecular breeding of chrysanthemum for disease resistance.
PABLOG: a Primer Analysis tool using a Bee‐Like approach on Orthologous Genes
Authors: Ferrigno Michele , Frazzetto Paola , Prjibelski Andrey , Tomescu Alexandru I. , Puglia Giuseppe Diego
Published: June 2024

RNA‐seq data is currently generated in numerous non‐model organisms that lack a reference genome. Nevertheless, the confirmation of gene expression levels using RT‐qPCR remains necessary, and the existing techniques do not seamlessly interface with the omics pipeline workflow. Developing primers for many targets by utilising orthologous genes can be a laborious, imprecise, and subjective process, particularly for plant species that are not commonly studied and do not have a known genome. We have developed a primer design tool, named PABLOG, that analyses the alignments generated from long or short RNA‐seq reads and a reference orthologous gene. PABLOG scans, much like a bee searching several flowers for pollen, and presents a sorted list of potential exon‐exon junction locations, ranked according to their reliability. Through computational analysis across the whole genomes of several non‐model species, we demonstrate that PABLOG performs more effectively than other methods in identifying exon‐exon junctions since it generates significantly fewer false‐positive results. Examination of candidate regions at the gene level, in conjunction with laboratory studies, shows that the suggested primers successfully amplified particular targets in non‐model plants without any presence of genomic contamination. Our tool includes a consensus sequence feature that enables the complete process of primer design, from aligning with the target gene to determining amplification parameters. The utility can be accessed via the GitHub repository located at: https://github.com/tools4plant-omics/PABLOG.
Understanding the sources, fate and effects of microplastics in aquatic environments with a focus on risk profiling in aquaculture systems
Authors: Nabi Naveed , Ahmad Ishtiyaq , Amin Adnan , Rather Mohd Ashraf , Ahmed Imtiaz , Hajam Younis Ahmad , Khursheed Saba , Malik Monisa Mehboob , Abubakr Adnan
Published: June 2024

The upsurge in the usage of plastics on a global scale has led to the widespread occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments. This review starts by outlining the current global scenario of plastic production. It then delves into the various sources of plastics and their entry into aquatic systems, including their impact on fisheries and the aquaculture sector. The detailed analysis of plastic entry and various methods of degradation into small sized, MPs followed by their transport, uptake and trophic transference have been reviewed systematically. Besides, the review summarizes the current knowledge on impacts of MPs, their additives and associated contaminants on organisms living in the aquatic environment, particularly fish thriving in cultured conditions. The analysis of effects of MPs alone and in association with other contaminants like heavy metals, organic pollutants and leachates reveal serious effects such as cytotoxicity, immune response, oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, barrier attributes and genotoxicity among various aquatic species particularly, fish. In addition, the present review discusses MPs invasion into aquaculture systems, explores risk assessment both in terms of exposure risk and toxicological risks associated with biochemical nature, size, shape and concentration of MPs. Besides, risk management strategies and future prospective to control MPs associated hazards have also been highlighted. In summary, the present review outlines the various sources, fate, impact of MPs in aquatic environment highlighting the need to recognize MPs pollution as a serious threat to aquatic organisms and to formulate strategies including prevention, reduce, reuse and safe disposal of plastic material.
Grassland restorations must better foster forbs to facilitate high biodiversity
Authors: Nerlekar Ashish N. , Sullivan Lauren L. , Brudvig Lars A.
Published: June 2024

Grassland restoration efforts typically aim to recover lost biodiversity, guided by biologically diverse old‐growth grasslands as a benchmark. In most old‐growth grasslands, forbs greatly outnumber grasses in terms of richness and therefore contribute most to diversity, but globally, restoration practitioners continue to disproportionately focus on increasing perennial grass cover. While such grass‐centric restoration approaches might be appropriate for meeting some restoration goals, an increasing number of studies reveal negative effects of perennial grass cover on forb and total plant diversity in restored grasslands—with cascading consequences for other trophic levels and grassland functionality. To that end, we urge restoration practitioners to recognize the biodiversity costs of grass‐centric approaches and embrace forb‐centric approaches to meet the goal of increasing biodiversity in restorations. Transferring knowledge between well‐studied and understudied grassland systems around the world will facilitate the shared vision of conserving and restoring global grassland biodiversity.
The causal relationship between blood metabolites and rosacea: A Mendelian randomization
Authors: Yao Huiyi , Shen Sihao , Gao Xingyue , Song Xiuzu , Xiang Wenzhong
Published: June 2024

Background

An increasing amount of research demonstrates that metabolic disorders are related to rosacea. However, the correlations and causal relationships among them remain unknown.

Methods

We conducted not only forward 2‐sample MR (Mendelian randomization) analyses but also reverse MR analyses which showed positive results in the forward MR analysis. In the forward MR analyses, inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) and MR‐Egger were performed as MR analyses. Cochran's Q test and the MR‐Egger Intercept were used for sensitivity analyses. Concerning reverse MR analyses, IVW, MR‐Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode were applied. Cochran's Q test, MR‐Egger Intercept, and MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR‐PRESSO) outlier test were applied as sensitivity analyses.

Results

A total of 24 metabolites and 1 metabolite ratio were shown to have a causal effect on rosacea. N‐lactoyl phenylalanine (N‐Lac‐Phe) was estimated as statistically significant by Bonferroni correction. Interestingly, we found three metabolites that were negatively associated with rosacea, especially caffeine, which are in line with the results of a large cohort study of females. For reverse MR analysis, we revealed that rosacea could potentially decrease the generation of two metabolites: octadecenedioate (C18:1−DC) and methyl vanillate sulfate.

Conclusion

This study identified blood metabolites that may be associated with the development of rosacea. However, the exact mechanism by which these positive metabolites influence rosacea remains uncertain due to the paucity of experimental investigations. The combination of genetics and metabolomics offers novel viewpoints on the research of underlying mechanisms of rosacea and has significant value in screening and prevention of rosacea.
Hahn series and Mahler equations: Algorithmic aspects
Authors: Faverjon C. , Roques J.
Published: June 2024

Many articles have recently been devoted to Mahler equations, partly because of their links with other branches of mathematics such as automata theory. Hahn series (a generalization of the Puiseux series allowing arbitrary exponents of the indeterminate as long as the set that supports them is well ordered) play a central role in the theory of Mahler equations. In this paper, we address the following fundamental question: is there an algorithm to calculate the Hahn series solutions of a given linear Mahler equation? What makes this question interesting is the fact that the Hahn series appearing in this context can have complicated supports with infinitely many accumulation points. Our (positive) answer to the above question involves among other things the construction of a computable well‐ordered receptacle for the supports of the potential Hahn series solutions.
Innovative Bearing Fault Diagnosis Method: Combining Swin Transformer Deep Learning and Acoustic Emission Technology
Authors: Jiang Peng , Xia Jinlei , Li Wei , Xu Chenqi , Sun Wenyu
Published: June 2024

Wind power generation, as a paragon of clean energy, places great importance on the reliability of its equipment. Bearings, in particular, as the core components of wind turbines, have a direct correlation with the stable operation and economic benefits of the entire system. Against this backdrop, addressing the core challenges in the field of bearing fault diagnosis, an innovative fault diagnosis method has been proposed. For the first time, the Swin Transformer deep learning model is combined with acoustic emission (AE) technology, and through advanced signal processing techniques, bearing signals are transformed into filter banks (FBank) feature inputs for the model, effectively achieving precise fault detection in low-speed, heavy-load bearings. With extensive validation on laboratory data of low-speed, heavy-load bearings and the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) bearing dataset, this method has achieved significant results in identifying four main damage categories. In-depth comparative analysis shows that (1) the improved Swin Transformer achieved an accuracy of 98.6% on the acoustic emission signal laboratory dataset, performing well under data imbalance conditions. (2) It achieved an accuracy of 95.63% on the vibration signal CWRU dataset, demonstrating good generalization capabilities.
Learning Scalable Decentralized Controllers for Heterogeneous Robot Swarms With Graph Neural Networks
Authors: Omotuyi Oyindamola , Kumar Manish
Published: June 2024

Distributed multi-agent systems are becoming increasingly crucial for diverse applications in robotics because of their capacity for scalability, efficiency, robustness, resilience, and the ability to accomplish complex tasks. Controlling these large-scale swarms by relying on local information is very challenging. Although centralized methods are generally efficient or optimal, they face the issue of scalability and are often impractical. Given the challenge of finding an efficient decentralized controller that uses only local information to accomplish a global task, we propose a learning-based approach to decentralized control using supervised learning. Our approach entails training controllers to imitate a centralized controller's behavior but uses only local information to make decisions. The controller is parameterized by aggregation graph neural networks (GNNs) that integrate information from remote neighbors. The problems of segregation and aggregation of a swarm of heterogeneous agents are explored in 2D and 3D point mass systems as two use cases to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework. The decentralized controller is trained using data from a centralized (expert) controller derived from the concept of artificial differential potential. Our learned models successfully transfer to actual robot dynamics in physics-based Turtlebot3 robot swarms in Gazebo/ROS2 simulations and hardware implementation and Crazyflie quadrotor swarms in Pybullet simulations. Our experiments show that our controller performs comparably to the centralized controller and demonstrates superior performance compared to a local controller. Additionally, we showed that the controller is scalable by analyzing larger teams and diverse groups with up to 100 robots.
Flow Through a Passage With Scaled Additive Manufacturing Roughness Representing Different Printing Orientations
Authors: Boldt Ryan , McClain Stephen T. , Kunz Robert F.
Published: June 2024

Components with internal passages created using some laser-sintering based, additive manufacturing (AM) systems can exhibit anisotropic surface features with an appearance of three-dimensional roughness superimposed on two-dimensional, rib-like features. This paper presents an investigation of flow over roughness representing internal cooling passages printed at different angles to the AM printing plane. A roughness geometry was acquired using an X-ray tomography scan of a direct-metal-laser-sintering (DMLS) created coupon with internal cooling passages. The base surface scan was then used to create four surfaces with notional rib-like features positioned at different angles relative to the spanwise flow direction. The flow resistance of each surface was measured using the roughness internal flow tunnel. The mean flow velocity profiles for the cases with ReDh ≤ 30,000 were characterized using a four-camera, tomographic, and particle tracking system. The results demonstrate roughness orientation effects include (1) reduced bulk flow resistance as the alignment angle from the spanwise direction increases, (2) generated flow in the spanwise direction and increased tunnel flow swirl as the alignment angle increases, and (3) velocity profile changes as the flow migrates away from the rough side of the tunnel to the opposing smooth wall. The particle tracking system also demonstrates that the mean streamwise flow profiles change significantly between the 30 deg and 45 deg roughness orientations. Finally, the equivalent sandgrain roughness measurements for the four surfaces were found to follow the trends predicted using the correlations of Bons (2002, “St and cf Augmentation for Real Turbine Roughness With Elevated Freestream Turbulence,” ASME J. Turbomach., 124(4), pp. 632–644.) and Sigal and Danberg (1990, “New Correlation of Roughness Density Effect on the Turbulent Boundary Layer,” AIAA J., 28(3), pp. 554–556.).
Identification of the Onset of Bifurcations in a Trapezoidal Cavity Receiver Open at the Top
Authors: Saxena Ashish , Mishra Saurabh , Maurya Govind , Singh Suneet , Pandey Vikas
Published: June 2024

Stability analysis of buoyancy-driven convective flow in the trapezoidal cavities is essential for efficient heat transfer in solar evaporators. In the present analysis, the symmetry breakdown pitchfork and Hopf bifurcations' phenomena have been identified for different aspects of the trapezoidal cavity, which is heated at the bottom and open at the top. The system loses stability through pitchfork bifurcation, and as a result, symmetry breakdown of the temperature contour occurs beyond a threshold value of Rayleigh number (Ra). Further, increases in Ra cause instability in the form of Hopf bifurcation at the aspect ratio of 1.5 and for different cavity internal angles. Hopf bifurcation emerges by the sudden change in the streamwise velocity component, shifting from a decaying state to a continuously fluctuating magnitude at a particular location within the cavity. Through this, we predict the threshold value of Ra corresponding to Hopf bifurcation at different obtuse and acute cavity angles for an aspect ratio of 1.5. The flow's stable transient and unstable states are also identified and discussed for different values of the cavity internal angle for an aspect ratio of 1.5.
Predicting compatibilized polymer blend toughness
Authors: Ivancic Robert J. S. , Audus Debra J.
Published: June 2024

Polymer blends can yield superior materials by merging the unique properties of their components. However, these mixtures often phase separate, leading to brittleness. While compatibilizers can toughen these blends, their vast design space makes optimization difficult. Here, we develop a model to predict the toughness of compatibilized glassy polymer mixtures. This theory reveals that compatibilizers increase blend toughness by creating molecular bridges that stitch the interface together. We validate this theory by directly comparing its predictions to extensive molecular dynamics simulations in which we vary polymer incompatibility, chain stiffness, compatibilizer areal density, and blockiness of copolymer compatibilizers. We then parameterize the model using self-consistent field theory and confirm its ability to make predictions for practical applications through comparison with simulations and experiments. These results suggest that the theory can optimize compatibilizer design for industrial glassy polymer blends in silico while providing microscopic insight, allowing for the development of next-generation mixtures.
Noninvasive assessment of the lung inflammation-fibrosis axis by targeted imaging of CMKLR1
Authors: Mannes Philip Z. , Adams Taylor S. , Farsijani Samaneh , Barnes Clayton E. , Latoche Joseph D. , Day Kathryn E. , Nedrow Jessie R. , Ahangari Farida , Kaminski Naftali , Lee Janet S. , Tavakoli Sina
Published: June 2024

Precision management of fibrotic lung diseases is challenging due to their diverse clinical trajectories and lack of reliable biomarkers for risk stratification and therapeutic monitoring. Here, we validated the accuracy of CMKLR1 as an imaging biomarker of the lung inflammation-fibrosis axis. By analyzing single-cell RNA sequencing datasets, we demonstrated
CMKLR1
expression as a transient signature of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMφ) enriched in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Consistently, we identified MDMφ as the major driver of the uptake of CMKLR1-targeting peptides in a murine model of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Furthermore, CMKLR1-targeted positron emission tomography in the murine model enabled quantification and spatial mapping of inflamed lung regions infiltrated by CMKLR1-expressing macrophages and emerged as a robust predictor of subsequent lung fibrosis. Last, high
CMKLR1
expression by bronchoalveolar lavage cells identified an inflammatory endotype of IPF with poor survival. Our investigation supports the potential of CMKLR1 as an imaging biomarker for endotyping and risk stratification of fibrotic lung diseases.
Development of a nanoparticle-based tendon-targeting drug delivery system to pharmacologically modulate tendon healing
Authors: Adjei-Sowah Emmanuela , Chandrasiri Indika , Xiao Baixue , Liu Yuxuan , Ackerman Jessica E. , Soto Celia , Nichols Anne E. C. , Nolan Katherine , Benoit Danielle S. W. , Loiselle Alayna E.
Published: June 2024

Satisfactory healing following acute tendon injury is marred by fibrosis. Despite the high frequency of tendon injuries and poor outcomes, there are no pharmacological therapies in use to enhance the healing process. Moreover, systemic treatments demonstrate poor tendon homing, limiting the beneficial effects of potential tendon therapeutics. To address this unmet need, we leveraged our existing tendon healing spatial transcriptomics dataset and identified an area enriched for expression of
Acp5
(TRAP) and subsequently demonstrated robust TRAP activity in the healing tendon. This unexpected finding allowed us to refine and apply our existing TRAP binding peptide (TBP) functionalized nanoparticle (NP) drug delivery system (DDS) to facilitate improved delivery of systemic treatments to the healing tendon. To demonstrate the translational potential of this DDS, we delivered niclosamide (NEN), an
S100a4
inhibitor. While systemic delivery of free NEN did not alter healing, TBP-NP
NEN
enhanced both functional and mechanical recovery, demonstrating the translational potential of this approach to enhance the tendon healing process.
Diet shapes the metabolite profile in the intact human ileum, which affects PYY release
Authors: Dagbasi Aygul , Byrne Claire , Blunt Dominic , Serrano-Contreras Jose Ivan , Becker Georgia Franco , Blanco Jesus Miguens , Camuzeaux Stephane , Chambers Edward , Danckert Nathan , Edwards Cathrina , Bernal Andres , Garcia Maria Valdivia , Hanyaloglu Aylin , Holmes Elaine , Ma Yue , Marchesi Julian , Martinez-Gili Laura , Mendoza Lilian , Tashkova Martina , Perez-Moral Natalia , Garcia-Perez Isabel , Robles Andres Castillo , Sands Caroline , Wist Julien , Murphy Kevin G. , Frost Gary
Published: June 2024

The human ileum contains a high density of enteroendocrine L-cells, which release the appetite-suppressing hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY) in response to food intake. Recent evidence highlighted the potential role of food structures in PYY release, but the link between food structures, ileal metabolites, and appetite hormone release remains unclear owing to limited access to intact human ileum. In a randomized crossover trial (ISRCTN11327221;
isrctn.com
), we investigated the role of human ileum in GLP-1 and PYY release by giving healthy volunteers diets differing in fiber and food structure: high-fiber (intact or disrupted food structures) or low-fiber disrupted food structures. We used nasoenteric tubes to sample chyme from the intact distal ileum lumina of humans in the fasted state and every 60 min for 480 min postprandially. We demonstrate the highly dynamic, wide-ranging molecular environment of the ileum over time, with a substantial decrease in ileum bacterial numbers and bacterial metabolites after food intake. We also show that high-fiber diets, independent of food structure, increased PYY release compared with a low-fiber diet during 0 to 240 min postprandially. High-fiber diets also increased ileal stachyose, and a disrupted high-fiber diet increased certain ileal amino acids. Treatment of human ileal organoids with ileal fluids or an amino acid and stachyose mixture stimulated
PYY
expression in a similar profile to blood PYY concentrations, confirming the role of ileal metabolites in PYY release. Our study demonstrates the diet-induced changes over time in the metabolite environment of intact human ileum, which play a role in PYY release.
Eclampsia, HELLP and PRES in a 16-week partial molar pregnancy
Authors: Core Daniel , Vervaeke Hayley , Leethy Kenna , Cooper Danielle , Zoorob Dani
Published: June 2024

Eclampsia spectrum disorders are a set of serious complications of pregnancy that commonly present after 20 weeks of gestation. There is an association between molar pregnancy, a gestational trophoblastic disease resulting from abnormal fertilisation and gametogenesis, and eclampsia spectrum disorders which can result in manifestation of pre-eclamptic symptomatology earlier than 20 weeks of gestation. We report a case of a gravida 1 para 0 in her mid 20s at 16-weeks gestation presenting with partial hydatidiform mole who developed eclampsia, haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets syndrome and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Ultrasound findings were consistent with molar pregnancy and pathology confirmed partial molar pregnancy with triploid 69, XYY karyotype. This case highlights the early onset potential of eclampsia spectrum disorders in molar pregnancies while suggesting screening such patients for hypertensive disorders.
Atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome in a patient with severe Babesiosis
Authors: Hajiabbasi Maryam , Shah Nagma , Bhatt Navin , Malik Muhammad Saad
Published: June 2024

Babesiosis is a tick-borne parasitic infection that can result in various haematological complications. This case report discusses a patient with severe Babesiosis complicated by an unorthodox presentation of Babesiosis-associated haemolytic uremic syndrome. Discussed here is the patient’s clinical course and the management strategies employed, with an emphasis on early recognition and treatment of renal failure in the context of severe Babesiosis. Haematologic manifestations of Babesia are common and the severity of disease is dependent on parasite load. While treatment options such as red blood cell exchange have been proposed for severe cases, their impact on clinical outcomes is limited and they may not be readily available in resource-limited settings. Traditional management using antimicrobials has been proposed but there is limited discussion about managing unique presentations such as renal failure in Babesiosis. Hence, understanding the pathophysiology, early recognition and aggressive treatment strategies can optimise clinical outcomes and reduce mortality.
Management of complicated Bouveret’s syndrome
Authors: Ranjan Priya , Jha Vijay Chetan , Gopal Prashant , Banerjee Debabrata
Published: June 2024

Bouveret’s syndrome is an uncommon cause of gastric outlet obstruction caused by the impaction of large gallstones in the duodenal lumen. The gallstones pass into the duodenal lumen through a cholecystogastric or a cholecystoduodenal fistula. Endoscopic retrieval with or without lithotripsy is the first line of management, often with variable success. We present a case of a woman in her 70s who presented with signs of gastric outlet obstruction and was diagnosed with Bouveret’s syndrome with a 5 cm diameter gallstone in the third part of her duodenum. Following several unsuccessful attempts of endoscopic extraction, she underwent successful jejunal enterotomy with fragmentation and extraction of the calculus using an Allis tissue holding forceps. Postoperative recovery was uneventful.
Cross-sectional experimental assessment of pain modulation as part of multidimensional profiling of people with cervicogenic headache: protocol for a feasibility study
Authors: Mingels Sarah , Granitzer Marita , Schmid Annina , Graven-Nielsen Thomas , Dankaerts Wim
Published: June 2024

Background

An endogenous pain modulation profile, reflecting antinociceptive and pronociceptive mechanisms, may help to direct management by targeting the involved pain mechanism. For individuals with cervicogenic headache (CeH), the characteristics of such profiles were never investigated. However, the individual nature of experiencing pain demands profiling within a multidimensional framework including psychosocial lifestyle characteristics. The objective of the current protocol is to assess the pain modulation profile, which includes psychosocial lifestyle characteristics among people with CeH.

Methods and analysis

A protocol is described to map pain modulation profiles in people with CeH. A cross-sectional non-randomised experimental design will be used to assess feasibility of mapping these profiles. The pain modulation profile is composed based on results on the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Headache Impact Test and on responses to temporal summation of pain (pinprick), conditioned pain modulation and widespread hyperalgesia (mechanical pressure pain threshold and cuff algometry). Primary analyses will report results relating to outcomes on feasibility. Secondary analyses will involve an analysis of proportions (%) of the different psychosocial lifestyle profiles and pain profiles.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted by the Ethics Committee Research UZ/KU Leuven (Registration number B3222024001434) on 30 May 2024. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals, at scientific conferences and, through press releases. Protocol V.3. protocol date: 3 June 2024.
Climate change-induced shifts in the food systems and diet-related non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review and a conceptual framework
Authors: Tapkigen Janet , Harding Seeromanie , Pulkki Jutta , Atkins Salla , Koivusalo Meri
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To determine the relationship between climate change, food systems and diet-related non-communicable diseases (DR-NCDs) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and propose a conceptual framework for food systems in SSA.

Design

A scoping review.

Eligibility criteria

Studies included investigated the relationship between climate change and related systemic risks, food systems, DR-NCDs and its risk factors in SSA. Studies focusing on the association between climate change and DR-NCDs unrelated to food systems, such as social inequalities, were excluded.

Sources of evidence

A comprehensive search was conducted in ProQuest (nine databases), Google Scholar and PubMed in December 2022.

Charting methods

Data extracted from studies included author, study type, country of study, climate change component, DR-NCD outcomes and risk factors, and impacts of climate change on DR-NCDs. A narrative approach was used to analyse the data. Based on the evidence gathered from SSA, we modified an existing food system conceptual framework.

Results

The search retrieved 19 125 studies, 10 of which were included in the review. Most studies used a cross-sectional design (n=8). Four explored the influence of temperature on liver cancer through food storage while four explored the influence of temperature and rainfall on diabetes and obesity through food production. Cross-sectional evidence suggested that temperature is associated with liver cancer and rainfall with diabetes.

Conclusion

The review highlights the vulnerability of SSA’s food systems to climate change-induced fluctuations, which in turn affect dietary patterns and DR-NCD outcomes. The evidence is scarce and concentrates mostly on the health effects of temperature through food storage. It proposes a conceptual framework to guide future research addressing climate change and DR-NCDs in SSA.
Integrated patient-centred care for type 2 diabetes in Singapore Primary Care Networks: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Goh Lay Hoon , Siah Chiew Jiat Rosalind , Szücs Anna , Tai E Shyong , Valderas Jose M , Young Doris
Published: June 2024

Objective

Patients with type 2 diabetes require patient-centred care as guided by the Chronic Care Model (CCM). Many diabetes patients in Singapore are managed by the Primary Care Networks (PCNs) which organised healthcare professionals (HCPs) comprising general practitioners, nurses and care coordinators into teams to provide diabetes care. Little is known about how the PCNs deliver care to people with type 2 diabetes. This study evaluated the consistency of diabetes care delivery in the PCNs with the CCM.

Design

This was a mixed-method study. The Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (ACIC version 3.5) survey was self-administered by the HCPs in the quantitative study (ACIC scores range 0–11, the latter indicating care delivery most consistent with CCM). Descriptive statistics were obtained, and linear mixed-effects regression model was used to test for association between independent variables and ACIC total scores. The qualitative study comprised semi-structured focus group discussions and used thematic analysis.

Setting

The study was conducted on virtual platforms involving the PCNs.

Participants

179 HCPs for quantitative study and 65 HCPs for qualitative study.

Results

Integrated analysis of quantitative and qualitative results found that there was support for diabetes care consistent with the CCM in the PCNs. The mean ACIC total score was 5.62 (SD 1.93). The mean element scores ranged from 6.69 (SD 2.18) (Health System Organisation) to 4.91 (SD 2.37) (Community Linkages). The qualitative themes described how the PCNs provided much needed diabetes services, their characteristics such as continuity of care, patient-centred care; collaborating with community partners, financial aspects of care, enablers for and challenges in performing care, and areas for enhancement.

Conclusion

This mixed-methods study informs that diabetes care delivery in the Singapore PCNs is consistent with the CCM. Future research should consider using independent observers in the quantitative study and collecting objective data such as patient outcomes.