bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blockchain technology and federated machine learning for collaborative initiatives in orthodontics and craniofacial health
Authors: Allareddy Veerasathpurush , Rampa Sankeerth , Venugopalan Shankar Rengasamy , Elnagar Mohammed H. , Lee Min Kyeong , Oubaidin Maysaa , Yadav Sumit
Published: April 2023

There is a paucity of largescale collaborative initiatives in orthodontics and craniofacial health. Such nationally representative projects would yield findings that are generalizable. The lack of large‐scale collaborative initiatives in the field of orthodontics creates a deficiency in study outcomes that can be applied to the population at large. The objective of this study is to provide a narrative review of potential applications of blockchain technology and federated machine learning to improve collaborative care. We conducted a narrative review of articles published from 2018 to 2023 to provide a high level overview of blockchain technology, federated machine learning, remote monitoring, and genomics and how they can be leveraged together to establish a patient centered model of care. To strengthen the empirical framework for clinical decision making in healthcare, we suggest use of blockchain technology and integrating it with federated machine learning. There are several challenges to adoption of these technologies in the current healthcare ecosystem. Nevertheless, this may be an ideal time to explore how best we can integrate these technologies to deliver high quality personalized care. This article provides an overview of blockchain technology and federated machine learning and how they can be leveraged to initiate collaborative projects that will have the patient at the center of care.
Contrast sensitivity functions measured using simple optics and computer testing
Authors: Hammond Billy R. , Leathers Taylor A. , Wooten Billy R. , Renzi‐Hammond Lisa M.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Contrast sensitivity function (CSF) testing is a common approach to assessing clinical changes to specific aspects of spatial vision. Different stimulus presentations and testing procedures, however, yield significant differences in CSF curves that are more a feature of the method than the observer. In this study, we designed a simple optical device for measuring CSF that could be directly calibrated and compared with a commonly used computer‐based system.

Methods

Twenty‐one participants (M = 28.95 ± 10.34 years; 66.7% female; 81.0% non‐Hispanic White; best corrected visual acuity 6/9 or better) provided photopic CSFs (from measurements at 1.6, 3.2, 8, 16 and 24 cycles per degree, with spatial frequency presentation randomised) using both the Metropsis test platform and a simple optical device over two test sessions (one session/method, randomised, counterbalanced) separated by 1–7 days. The optical system used 520 nm lasers that were made Lambertian using two integrating spheres with a 3.5° circular exit port. These beams were combined with a beam splitter that allowed constant measurement of light output and contrast modulation using sine‐wave gratings on glass. In Metropsis, 2° Gabor stimuli were presented for 0.5 s with either a vertical or a horizontal orientation via a two‐alternative forced choice paradigm with contrast modulated until four (first) and eight (last) reversals were complete.

Results

Both methods took approximately the same amount of time to generate a CSF and yielded curves that were consistent with past studies using similar methods but different from each other. The optical system showed a 3.5 times higher maximum sensitivity and yielded higher test–retest reliability.

Conclusions

Using simple optics to measure CSF yields low noise, high sensitivity and reliability. The ability to calibrate the stimuli directly is an advantage over computer‐based methods.
Out‐of‐pocket expenses associated with pediatric heart transplantation
Authors: Kaslow Whitney W. , Jaworski Nancy A. , Crawford Courtney , Taylor Katherine , Bearl David W. , Dodd Debra , Godown Justin
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Heart transplantation in children is associated with high resource utilization. However, the financial burden on families and the association with patient and demographic factors remains unclear. This study aims to examine out‐of‐pocket expenses associated with pediatric heart transplantation.

Methods

An anonymous REDCap survey was distributed to caregivers of children who have undergone heart transplantation using social media, national organizations, and during clinic encounters from May through August 2022.

Results

There were a total of 146 respondents. The median monthly out‐of‐pocket expense was $250 (IQR $75–$500) and 20 respondents (13.7%) reported monthly expenses of >$1000. Families with commercial insurance reported significantly higher out‐of‐pocket expenses compared to those with government‐sponsored insurance (median $350 vs. $100, p < .001). Families with government‐sponsored insurance were most happy with their insurance coverage, followed by commercial insurance and then coverage through the Affordable Care Act (p < .001 for all pairwise comparisons). There was no statistically significant difference in overall transplant‐related out‐of‐pocket expenses based on total household income (p = .222). Monthly out‐of‐pocket expense was not associated with the number of medications, type of immunosuppressants, or post‐transplant complications including rejection, PTLD, or CAV (p = NS for all). Cardiac catheterizations and unplanned admissions were reported as the events that incurred the highest out‐of‐pocket expense.

Conclusion

Families of children who have undergone heart transplantation can incur significant out‐of‐pocket expenses and strategies to mitigate this financial burden should be investigated.
Do substances have formal parts?
Authors: Renz Graham
Published: April 2023

Hylomorphism is the Aristotelian theory according to which substances are composed of matter and form. If a house is a substance, then its matter would be a collection of bricks and timbers, and its form is something like the structure of those bricks and timbers. It is widely agreed that matter bears a mereological relationship to substance; the bricks and timbers are parts of the house. But with form things are more controversial. Is the structure of the bricks and timbers best conceived as a part of the house, or is it related to the house in some non‐mereological fashion? Kathrin Koslicki argues that substances have formal parts and that forms are best conceived as bearing a mereological relation to substances. This paper shows that her argument fails, given the traditional and plausible distinction between substances and accidental unities. I close with a brief suggestion for a non‐mereological construal of forms.
Role of histone H3K4 methyltransferase in regulating Monascus pigments production by red light‐coupled magnetic field
Authors: Zhang Jialan , Chen Yufeng , Wang Shaojin , Liu Yingbao , Li Li , Gao Mengxiang
Published: April 2023

Light, magnetic field, and methylation affected the growth and secondary metabolism of fungi. The regulation effect of the three factors on the growth and Monascus pigments (MPs) synthesis of Monascus purpureus was investigated in this study. 5‐azacytidine (5‐AzaC), DNA methylation inhibitor, was used to treat M. purpureus (wild‐type, WT). Twenty micromolar 5‐AzaC significantly promoted the growth, development, and MPs yield. Moreover, 250 lux red light and red light coupled magnetic field (RLCMF) significantly promoted the biomass. For WT, red light, and RLCMF significantly promoted MPs yield. But compared with red light treatment, only 0.2 mT RLCMF promoted the alcohol‐soluble MPs yield. For histone H3K4 methyltransferase complex subunit Ash2 gene knockout strain (ΔAsh2), only 0.2 mT RLCMF significantly promoted water‐soluble MPs yield. Yet red light, 1.0 and 0.2 mT RLCMF significantly promoted alcohol‐soluble MPs yield. This indicated that methylation affected the MPs biosynthesis. Red light and weaker MF had a synergistic effect on the growth and MPs synthesis of ΔAsh2. This result was further confirmed by the expression of related genes. Therefore, histone H3K4 methyltransferase was involved in the regulation of the growth, development, and MPs synthesis of M. purpureus by the RLCMF.
Associations of accelerometer‐based sedentary time, light physical activity and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity with resting cardiac structure and function in adolescents according to sex, fat mass, lean mass, BMI, and hypertensive status
Authors: Agbaje Andrew O.
Published: April 2023

Background

This study examined the independent relationships of device‐based measured sedentary time (ST) and physical activity (PA) in relation to cardiac structural and functional geometry among adolescents.

Methods

From the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, UK birth cohort, 530 (50% female) adolescents aged 17 years had complete ST, PA, cardiac, and covariate measures. Echocardiography cardiac measures were left ventricular mass indexed for height2.7 (LVMI2.7), relative wall thickness, LV diastolic function (LVDF), and LV filling pressure (LVFP). Overweight/obesity and elevated systolic/BP hypertension were categorized as body mass index >24.99 kg/m2 and ≥130 mmHg, respectively. Data were analyzed with linear regression models adjusting for cardiometabolic factors and lifestyle factors.

Results

The prevalence of overweight/obesity in males and females was 17.9% and 24.5%, respectively. The prevalence of elevated systolic BP/hypertension was 11.6% in males and 1.1% among females. The average ST was 484 ± 78 min/day, light PA was 274 ± 62 min/day, and moderate‐to‐vigorous PA (MVPA) was 41 ± 24 min/day, among females. Average ST, LPA, and MVPA were 468 ± 87 min/day, 293 ± 70 min/day, and 56 ± 30 min/day, respectively, among males. Higher ST was associated with higher LVMI2.7 (standardized β = 0.16; p = 0.01) among females, but higher ST was associated with lower LVDF in males (β = −0.14; p = 0.04). Higher ST and MVPA were associated with higher LVMI2.7 in the total cohort, normal weight, and overweight/obese adolescents. Light PA was associated with higher LVDF in the total cohort and normotensives and lower LVFP among adolescents with high lean mass.

Conclusions

Higher ST and MVPA were associated with higher LVMI; however, ST‐associated LVMI increase was threefold higher than MVPA‐associated LVMI increase. Higher LPA was associated with better cardiac function. Reducing ST and increasing LPA may attenuate the risk of altered cardiac structure and function in adolescents.
A metasomatised mantle origin for post‐collisional porphyry ore‐forming magmas in the Sanjiang metallogenic belt, Southwest China
Authors: Hao Hongda , Park Jung‐Woo
Published: April 2023

We constrain the magma sources of representative post‐collisional ore‐associated and barren suites in the Sanjiang metallogenic belt, Southwest China. The ore‐associated suites generally have higher Mg# and Cr and Ni contents than the crustal melts. Also, they show wide ranges of whole‐rock Nd and zircon Hf isotopes that are similar to the subduction‐modified mantle‐derived alkaline volcanic rocks in the region. Combing with the geochemical model, we suggest that the ore‐associated suites dominantly originated from partial melts of subduction‐metasomatised mantle by fractional crystallisation. In contrast, the barren suites are mainly characterised by low Mg# and Cr and Ni contents that are comparable to the crustal melts and they have enriched whole‐rock Nd and zircon Hf isotopes, indicating a metasomatised lower crustal origin. The different magma sources play an important role in controlling the fertility of contemporary ore‐associated and barren magmatic suites during post‐collisional porphyry ore formation.
Sensory plastid‐associated PsbP DOMAIN‐CONTAINING PROTEIN 3 triggers plant growth‐ and defense‐related epigenetic responses
Authors: Jeh Ha Eun , Sanchez Robersy , Beltrán Jesús , Yang Xiaodong , Kundariya Hardik , Wamboldt Yashitola , Dopp Isaac , Hafner Alenka , Mackenzie Sally A.
Published: April 2023

Sensory plastids are important in plant responses to environmental changes. Previous studies show that MutS HOMOLOG 1 (MSH1) perturbation in sensory plastids induces heritable epigenetic phenotype adjustment. Previously, the PsbP homolog DOMAIN‐CONTAINING PROTEIN 3 (PPD3), a protein of unknown function, was postulated to be an interactor with MSH1. This study investigates the relationship of PPD3 with MSH1 and with plant environmental sensing. The ppd3 mutant displays a whole‐plant phenotype variably altered in growth rate, flowering time, reactive oxygen species (ROS) modulation and response to salt, with effects on meristem growth. Present in both chloroplasts and sensory plastids, PPD3 colocalized with MSH1 in root tips but not in leaf tissues. The suppression or overexpression of PPD3 affected the plant growth rate and stress tolerance, and led to a heritable, heterogenous ‘memory’ state with both dwarfed and vigorous growth phenotypes. Gene expression and DNA methylome data sets from PPD3‐OX and derived memory states showed enrichment in growth versus defense networks and meristem effects. Our results support a model of sensory plastid influence on nuclear epigenetic behavior and ppd3 as a second trigger, functioning within meristem plastids to recalibrate growth plasticity.
Albumin‐based solution is the ideal post‐thawing suspension medium for cord blood hematopoietic stem cells: A stability and proliferative evaluation
Authors: Lachica Che‐Ann , Miele Massimino Jan , Herrera Sheanna Marie , Elanbari Mohammed , Deola Sara , Saleh Ayman , Ejaz Anila , Aftab Syed , Olagunju Damilola , Laoun Rabah , Cugno Chiara
Published: April 2023

Background

Cryopreservation and thawing protocols represent key factors for the efficacy of cellular therapy products, such as hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). While the HSC cryopreservation has already been standardized, the thawing procedures have been poorly studied. This study aimed to evaluate the thawing and washing protocol of cord blood (CB) derived HSCs or the HPC(CB), by selecting the optimal thawing solution and determining CD34+ cells' stability over time.

Study Design and Methods

Seven cryopreserved CB products were thawed, washed, and resuspended in three different solutions (10% Dextran40 in NaCl equally prepared with 5% human albumin; 5% human albumin in PBS/EDTA; and normal saline) and stored at 4°C (±2°C). Mononuclear cell (MNC) count, CD45+/CD34+ cell enumeration, and cell viability were tested at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 h. The protocol with the selected solution was further validated on additional 10 CB samples. The above parameters and the colony‐forming unit (CFU) assay were analyzed at time points 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h.

Results and Discussion

The results showed that the 5% human albumin was the most suitable thawing solution. MNCs were stable up to 4 h (p = 0.009), viable CD45+ cells were unstable even at 2 h (p = 0.013), and viable CD34+ cells were stable until 6 h (p = 0.019). The CFU assay proved the proliferative potential up to 8 h, although significantly decreased after 4 h (p = 0.013), and correlated with the viable CD34+ cell counts. We demonstrated that the post‐thawed and washed HPC(CB) using 5% human albumin is stable for up to 4 h.
Small sums of five roots of unity
Authors: Barber Ben
Published: April 2023

Motivated by questions in number theory, Myerson asked how small the sum of five complex th roots of unity can be. We obtain a uniform bound of by perturbing the vertices of a regular pentagon, improving to infinitely often. The corresponding configurations were suggested by examining exact minimum values computed for . These minima can be explained at least in part by selection of the best example from multiple families of competing configurations related to close rational approximations.
Clinical Evaluation Findings in Patients Diagnosed With Deltoid Ligament Ankle Sprains: A Report From the Athletic Training Practice-Based Research Network
Authors: Snyder Valier Alison R. , Toohill Haley , Lam Kenneth C. , Huxel Bliven Kellie C.
Published: April 2023

Objective: To describe clinical presentation and initial management of patients with deltoid ligament ankle sprains. Design: Retrospective. Setting: Practice-based research network. Participants: Athletic trainers (n = 133) from 52 clinics in 19 states. Independent Variable: Deltoid sprains (October 2009–April 2020). Main Outcome Measurements: Clinical findings (e.g., sport, mechanism of injury, severity, range of motion, tests) and initial management. Results: Deltoid sprains (n = 105) were diagnosed within 3.2 ± 4.1 days of injury, mostly in male secondary school athletes (n = 62/105, 59.0%). Common sports were football (n = 29/94, 30.9%) and basketball (n = 28/94, 29.8%). Common mechanism of injuries were twisting (n = 35/94, 37.2%) and contact (n = 28/94, 29.8%). Sprains were mostly mild (n = 59/94, 62.7%) with mild or no edema (n = 85/96, 85.5%) and effusion (n = 90/96, 93.4%). Active (n = 49/96, 51.0%) and passive range of motion (n = 54/96, 56.3%) were mostly normal, and a median of four (interquartile range = 2–5) tests were used, mostly anterior drawer (n = 74/105, 70.5%) and talar tilt-eversion (n = 74/105, 70.5%). Management involved removal from participation (n = 48/94, 51.1%), treatment by athletic trainers (n = 22/40, 55.0%), and referral to physicians (n = 16/40, 40.0%). Conclusions: Deltoid sprains mostly occurred in males playing football or basketball and were caused by twisting with minimal effusion, edema, and range of motion loss. Given the infrequency of deltoid sprains and difficulty diagnosing them, thorough clinical evaluation is necessary for treatment decisions.
Global concurrent climate extremes exacerbated by anthropogenic climate change
Authors: Zhou Sha , Yu Bofu , Zhang Yao
Published: April 2023

Increases in concurrent climate extremes in different parts of the world threaten the ecosystem and our society. However, spatial patterns of these extremes and their past and future changes remain unclear. Here, we develop a statistical framework to test for spatial dependence and show widespread dependence of temperature and precipitation extremes in observations and model simulations, with more frequent than expected concurrence of extremes around the world. Historical anthropogenic forcing has strengthened the concurrence of temperature extremes over 56% of 946 global paired regions, particularly in the tropics, but has not yet significantly affected concurrent precipitation extremes during 1901–2020. The future high-emissions pathway of SSP585 will substantially amplify the concurrence strength, intensity, and spatial extent for both temperature and precipitation extremes, especially over tropical and boreal regions, while the mitigation pathway of SSP126 can ameliorate the increase in concurrent climate extremes for these high-risk regions. Our findings will inform adaptation strategies to alleviate the impact of future climate extremes.
Dense sampling of ethnic groups within African countries reveals fine-scale genetic structure and extensive historical admixture
Authors: Bird Nancy , Ormond Louise , Awah Paschal , Caldwell Elizabeth F. , Connell Bruce , Elamin Mohamed , Fadlelmola Faisal M. , Matthew Fomine Forka Leypey , López Saioa , MacEachern Scott , Moñino Yves , Morris Sam , Näsänen-Gilmore Pieta , Nketsia V Nana Kobina , Veeramah Krishna , Weale Michael E. , Zeitlyn David , Thomas Mark G. , Bradman Neil , Hellenthal Garrett
Published: April 2023

Previous studies have highlighted how African genomes have been shaped by a complex series of historical events. Despite this, genome-wide data have only been obtained from a small proportion of present-day ethnolinguistic groups. By analyzing new autosomal genetic variation data of 1333 individuals from over 150 ethnic groups from Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Nigeria, and Sudan, we demonstrate a previously underappreciated fine-scale level of genetic structure within these countries, for example, correlating with historical polities in western Cameroon. By comparing genetic variation patterns among populations, we infer that many northern Cameroonian and Sudanese groups share genetic links with multiple geographically disparate populations, likely resulting from long-distance migrations. In Ghana and Nigeria, we infer signatures of intermixing dated to over 2000 years ago, corresponding to reports of environmental transformations possibly related to climate change. We also infer recent intermixing signals in multiple African populations, including Congolese, that likely relate to the expansions of Bantu language–speaking peoples.
Ultralow-dose binary oncolytic/helper-dependent adenovirus promotes antitumor activity in preclinical and clinical studies
Authors: Wang Daniel , Porter Caroline E. , Lim Bora , Rosewell Shaw Amanda , Robertson Catherine S. , Woods Mae L. , Xu Ya , Biegert Greyson G.W. , Morita Daisuke , Wang Tao , Grilley Bambi J. , Heslop Helen , Brenner Malcolm K. , Suzuki Masataka
Published: April 2023

We show that a binary oncolytic/helper-dependent adenovirus (CAdVEC) that both lyses tumor cells and locally expresses the proinflammatory cytokine IL-12 and PD-L1 blocking antibody has potent antitumor activity in humanized mouse models. On the basis of these preclinical studies, we treated four patients with a single intratumoral injection of an ultralow dose of CAdVEC (NCT03740256), representing a dose of oncolytic adenovirus more than 100-fold lower than used in previous trials. While CAdVEC caused no significant toxicities, it repolarized the tumor microenvironment with increased infiltration of CD8 T cells. A single administration of CAdVEC was associated with both locoregional and abscopal effects on metastases and, in combination with systemic administration of immune checkpoint antibodies, induced sustained antitumor responses, including one complete and two partial responses. Hence, in both preclinical and clinical studies, CAdVEC is safe and even at extremely low doses is sufficiently potent to induce significant tumor control through oncolysis and immune repolarization.
Structure-guided engineering of a receptor-agonist pair for inducible activation of the ABA adaptive response to drought
Authors: Lozano-Juste Jorge , Infantes Lourdes , Garcia-Maquilon Irene , Ruiz-Partida Rafael , Merilo Ebe , Benavente Juan Luis , Velazquez-Campoy Adrian , Coego Alberto , Bono Mar , Forment Javier , Pampín Begoña , Destito Paolo , Monteiro Adrián , Rodríguez Ramón , Cruces Jacobo , Rodriguez Pedro L. , Albert Armando
Published: April 2023

Strategies to activate abscisic acid (ABA) receptors and boost ABA signaling by small molecules that act as ABA receptor agonists are promising biotechnological tools to enhance plant drought tolerance. Protein structures of crop ABA receptors might require modifications to improve recognition of chemical ligands, which in turn can be optimized by structural information. Through structure-based targeted design, we have combined chemical and genetic approaches to generate an ABA receptor agonist molecule (iSB09) and engineer a CsPYL1 ABA receptor, named CsPYL1
5m
, which efficiently binds iSB09. This optimized receptor-agonist pair leads to activation of ABA signaling and marked drought tolerance. No constitutive activation of ABA signaling and hence growth penalty was observed in transformed
Arabidopsis thaliana
plants. Therefore, conditional and efficient activation of ABA signaling was achieved through a chemical-genetic orthogonal approach based on iterative cycles of ligand and receptor optimization driven by the structure of ternary receptor-ligand-phosphatase complexes.
A simple, time- and cost-effective, high-throughput depletion strategy for deep plasma proteomics
Authors: Viode Arthur , van Zalm Patrick , Smolen Kinga K. , Fatou Benoit , Stevenson David , Jha Meenakshi , Levy Ofer , Steen Judith , Steen Hanno ,   On behalf of the IMPACC Network
Published: April 2023

We introduce a cost-effective, robust high-throughput–compatible plasma depletion method enabling in-depth profiling of plasma that detects >1300 proteins per run with a throughput of 60 samples per day. The method has been fully validated by processing >3000 samples with no apparent batch effect at a cost for the depletion step of ~$2.5 per sample.
Two triplet emitting states in one emitter: Near-infrared dual-phosphorescent Au
20
nanocluster
Authors: Si Wei-Dan , Zhang Chengkai , Zhou Meng , Tian Wei-Dong , Wang Zhi , Hu Qingsong , Song Ke-Peng , Feng Lei , Huang Xian-Qiang , Gao Zhi-Yong , Tung Chen-Ho , Sun Di
Published: April 2023

Intrinsic dual-emission (DE) of gold nanoclusters in the near-infrared (NIR) are fascinating for fundamental importance and practical applications, but their synthesis remains a formidable challenge and sophisticated excited-state processes make elucidating DE mechanisms much more arduous. Here, we report an all-alkynyl–protected gold nanocluster,
Au20
, showing a prolate Au
12
tri-octahedral kernel surrounded by two Au
2
(CZ-PrA)
3
dimers, four Au(CZ-PrA)
2
monomers, and two CZ-PrA
−
bridges.
Au20
exhibits distinguished photophysical properties including NIR DE at 820 and 940 nm, microsecond radiative relaxation, and 6.26% photoluminescent quantum yield at ambient environment in nondegassed solution. Combining systematic studies on steady/transient spectroscopy and theoretical calculation, we identified two triplet charge transfer (CT) states, ligand-to-kernel and kernel-based CT states as DE origins. Furthermore, this NIR DE exhibits highly independent and sensitive response to surrounding environments, which well coincide with its mechanism. This work not only provides a substantial structure model to understand a distinctive DE mechanism but also motivates the further development of NIR DE materials.
Induction of Transmucosal Protection by Oral Vaccination with an Attenuated Chlamydia
Authors: Wang Yihui , He Rongze , Winner Halah , Gauduin Marie-Claire , Zhang Nu , He Cheng , Zhong Guangming
Published: April 2023

Chlamydia muridarum
has been used to study chlamydial pathogenesis because it induces mice to develop hydrosalpinx, a pathology observed in
C. trachomatis
-infected women. We identified a
C. muridarum
mutant that is no longer able to induce hydrosalpinx.
SARS-CoV-2 Variant Pathogenesis Following Primary Infection and Reinfection in Syrian Hamsters
Authors: Plunkard Jessica , Mulka Kathleen , Zhou Ruifeng , Tarwater Patrick , Zhong William , Lowman Margaret , Wong Amanda , Pekosz Andrew , Villano Jason
Published: April 2023

With the continued circulation and emergence of new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants, understanding differences in the effects between the initial infection and a subsequent reinfection on disease pathogenesis is critical and highly relevant. This study characterizes Syrian hamsters as an animal model to study reinfection with SARS-CoV-2. Previous infection reduced the disease severity of reinfection with different SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Genome Sequence of
Arthrobacter
sp. Strain ATA002, a Seed Endophytic Bacterium from the Atacama Desert
Authors: Oses Pedraza Rómulo , Mitzscherling Julia , Lipus Daniel , Wagner Dirk , Bartholomäus Alexander
Published: April 2023

The Gram-positive diazotrophic seed endophytic bacterium
Arthrobacter
sp. strain ATA002 was isolated from seeds of the endemic cactus
Maihueniopsis domeykoensis
collected in the Atacama Desert, Chile. Here, we present a circular genome sequence, obtained by Nanopore sequencing, with a size of 3,904,590 bp and a GC content of 65.9%.
Emergence of Exopolysaccharides Overproducers Is Linked to Environmental Spatial Structure via Redox State
Authors: Ardré Maxime , Deforet Maxime
Published: April 2023

The formation of biofilm at the air-liquid interface of a still flask is related to the emergence of exopolysaccharides (EPS) overproducers. These mutants have the ability to remain near the surface, where oxygen is abundant.
Characterization of the Sterol 24-C-Methyltransferase Genes Reveals a Network of Alternative Sterol Biosynthetic Pathways in
Mucor lusitanicus
Authors: Bauer Kitti , Rafael Bence , Vágó Bernadett , Kiss-Vetráb Sándor , Molnár Anna , Szebenyi Csilla , Varga Mónika , Szekeres András , Vágvölgyi Csaba , Papp Tamás , Nagy Gábor
Published: April 2023

The fungal membrane contains ergosterol instead of cholesterol, which offers a specific point of attack for the defense against pathogenic fungi. Indeed, most antifungal agents target ergosterol or its biosynthesis.
Overestimation of Amphotericin B Resistance in Candida auris with Sensititre YeastOne Antifungal Susceptibility Testing: a Need for Adjustment for Correct Interpretation
Authors: Siopi Maria , Peroukidou Ilektra , Beredaki Maria-Ioanna , Spruijtenburg Bram , de Groot Theun , Meis Jacques F. , Vrioni Georgia , Tsakris Athanasios , Pournaras Spyros , Meletiadis Joseph
Published: April 2023

Candida auris
is an emerging and frequently multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen that accounts for life-threatening invasive infections and nosocomial outbreaks worldwide. Reliable AF is important for the choice of the optimal treatment.
Tracking isotopic sources of immiscible melts at the enigmatic magnetite-(apatite) deposit at El Laco, Chile, using Pb isotopes
Authors: Pietruszka Dorota K. , Hanchar John M. , Tornos Fernando , Whitehouse Martin J. , Velasco Francisco
Published: April 2023

The long-standing controversy about the origin of magnetite-(apatite) mineral deposits pertains to how they form. The Pleistocene El Laco deposit in northern Chile is a critical location because the host andesite contains immiscible melt inclusions trapped in plagioclase and clinopyroxene phenocrysts that reveal the involvement of immiscible melts in the evolution of the El Laco Volcanic System hosting the magnetite-(apatite) mineralization. We present results from the first-ever whole-rock and in situ Pb isotope investigation at El Laco, which provides a better understanding of the relationships between immiscible melts preserved in the melt inclusions, the magnetite ore, and the host andesite, and helps identify sources of the ore metals by analyzing potential sources of crustal lead. Our study reveals that the phenocrysts and the melt inclusions contain homogenous Pb isotope compositions that overlap with the host andesite, which confirms that they are coeval and cogenetic. The magnetite ore, however, has significantly more primitive 206Pb/204Pb ratios, which points to Pb isotopic disequilibrium between the magnetite ore and host andesite. Model ages of 367−167 Ma for the magnetite ore suggest that the Pb was inherited from a U−Th-depleted reservoir that could be represented by sedimentary rocks found in the basement of the Andean Cordillera under El Laco, for example, the Palaeozoic P-rich ironstones sequence. These results are consistent with the major role of crustal contamination in the formation of magnetite-(apatite) mineralization elsewhere and suggest that the magnetite ore crystallized from immiscible Fe-rich melts contaminated by the underlying sedimentary sequences.
Radiation of a Solitary Polarization Pulse Moving at the Speed of Light
Authors: Arkhipov R. M. , Arkhipov M. V. , Pakhomov A. V. , Diachkova O. O. , Rosanov N. N.
Published: April 2023

Photons have zero rest mass and always travel at the speed of light in a vacuum, but have no dipole moment. Atoms and molecules, which may have a constant or variable dipole moment, have mass and therefore cannot move at or above the speed of light. As a result, the radiation from such systems moving at the velocity of light was not considered. However, it is possible to create many artificial objects (light spots, effective charges, current pulses, etc.) that can travel at the speed of light and even exceed it. In this case, they become a source of electromagnetic radiation. In this work, the radiation of a solitary polarization pulse that travels at the speed of light and has a variable or constant amplitude is discussed. It is shown that if the amplitude does not change, then such an object does not radiate outward; i.e., the field emitted by it remains completely localized inside the moving polarization pulse. If the amplitude changes over time, then it begins to radiate backwards. In this case, unipolar pulses of an unusual shape, such as a rectangular one, can be obtained.
A Non-Parameter Filled Function Method for Unconstrained Global Optimization Problems
Authors: Liu Yingchun , Gao Yuelin , Ma Suxia , Guo Eryang
Published: April 2023

In the paper, we give a new non-parameter filled function method for finding global minimizer of global optimization programming problems, the filled function consists of a inverse cosine function and a logarithm function, and without parameter. Its theoretical residences are proved. A new filled function algorithm is given based on the proposed new parameterless filled function, The results of numerical with ten experiments verify the efficient and reliability for the algorithm.
A 4.21-μV Offset Voltage and 42-nV/√Hz Input Noise Chopper Operational Amplifier with Dynamic Element Matching
Authors: Zhu Ruikai , Wu Chenjian
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a high-efficiency operational amplifier (op-amp) used in the readout circuit of micro-sensor. The chopping and dynamic element matching (DEM) techniques are used in the proposed design, which greatly reduce the offset voltage and flicker noise [Formula: see text] noise) of the op-amp. By optimizing the circuit structure, the maximum chopping frequency is increased to 2[Formula: see text]MHz when the offset voltage is less than [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]V. Therefore, the maximum bandwidth of signal processing can be up to 1MHz. The proposed circuit is designed and fabricated using TSMC 0.18-[Formula: see text]m 1P5M CMOS technology. It occupies an area of 0.16[Formula: see text]mm2 and consumes [Formula: see text]A from a 1.8-V supply. When the chopping frequency is 100[Formula: see text]kHz, the input-referred offset voltage is 4.21[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]V and the input-referred noise is 42[Formula: see text]nV[Formula: see text]Hz. It achieves a noise efficiency factor of 7.82 and a power efficiency factor of 110.07.
Verification of Safety for Synchronous-Reactive System Using Bounded Model Checking
Authors: Zhang Xiaozhen , Yang Zhaoming , Kong Hui , Kong Weiqiang
Published: April 2023

Real-time embedded systems are increasingly applied in safety-critical areas, so guaranteeing the correctness of such systems by means of formal methods becomes particularly important. In this paper, we propose an optimized bounded model checking (BMC)-based formal verification approach for the verification of safety for synchronous-reactive (SR) models, which are often used to design systems with complicated control logic, especially the real-time embedded control systems. This method is based on the tackling of a series of challenging problems including the management of the logical clock, encoding of the contained ports, representation of the data types of ports, descriptions of behaviors of various components in a considered model, and formal consideration of the fixed-point semantics. We have implemented this proposed method in the prototype Ptolemy-Z3, and integrated this tool into the Ptolemy II environment. In addition, the experimental evaluation on 22 SR models has shown that our method performs better than the existing automatic verification method in Ptolemy II.
Yukawa–Casimir wormholes in 4-D Einstein Gauss–Bonnet gravity
Authors: Shweta  , Sharma Umesh Kumar , Mishra Ambuj Kumar
Published: April 2023

It is an undeniable fact that the negative energy source is essential for the stability of traversable wormholes. Recently, it has been shown that the Casimir energy which is the only artificial source of negative energy till date, could source the negative energy to the traversable wormholes as well. In this paper, we explore the possibility of non-exotic traversable wormholes in 4-D EGB gravity. We use the Yukawa–Casimir shape function and investigate the various energy conditions. We observe that for appropriate choices of shape function and the parameters, traversable wormholes with normal matter at throat can be found.
Synchronous Deterministic Parallel Programming for Multi-Cores with ForeC
Authors: Yip Eugene , Girault Alain , Roop Partha S. , Biglari-Abhari Morteza
Published: April 2023

Embedded real-time systems are tightly integrated with their physical environment. Their correctness depends both on the outputs and timeliness of their computations. The increasing use of multi-core processors in such systems is pushing embedded programmers to be parallel programming experts. However, parallel programming is challenging because of the skills, experiences, and knowledge needed to avoid common parallel programming traps and pitfalls. This article proposes the ForeC synchronous multi-threaded programming language for the deterministic, parallel, and reactive programming of embedded multi-cores. The synchronous semantics of ForeC is designed to greatly simplify the understanding and debugging of parallel programs. ForeC ensures that ForeC programs can be compiled efficiently for parallel execution and be amenable to static timing analysis. ForeC’s main innovation is its shared variable semantics that provides thread isolation and deterministic thread communication. All ForeC programs are correct by construction and deadlock free because no non-deterministic constructs are needed. We have benchmarked our ForeC compiler with several medium-sized programs (e.g., a 2.274-line ForeC program with up to 26 threads and distributed on up to 10 cores, which was based on a 2.155-line non-multi-threaded C program). These benchmark programs show that ForeC can achieve better parallel performance than Esterel, a widely used imperative synchronous language for concurrent safety-critical systems, and is competitive in performance to OpenMP, a popular desktop solution for parallel programming (which implements classical multi-threading, hence is intrinsically non-deterministic). We also demonstrate that the worst-case execution time of ForeC programs can be estimated to a high degree of precision.
Remote limb ischemic postconditioning attenuates myocardial dysfunction induced by testicular torsion/detorsion in rats
Authors: Liu Quanhua , Abbott Geoffrey W. , Li Jiaxue , Liu Ting , Wang Qifeng , Ju Feng , Hu Zhaoyang
Published: April 2023

Torsion of the spermatic cord is a urological emergency that must be treated immediately with surgery, yet detorsion of the testis can cause testicular tissue damage because of ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. I/R injury is a complex pathophysiological process that may affect the functions of distant organs. Here, we examined whether testicular torsion/detorsion (TT) causes myocardial dysfunction. We next investigated the potential beneficial effect and underlying mechanisms of remote ischemic postconditioning (RIPost) on cardiac function after testicular torsion/detorsion. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to three different sets of experimental groups. Testicular I/R was induced by rotating the right testis to 1080° clockwise for 3 h followed by 3 h of detorsion. RIPost was induced at the onset of testicular detorsion by four cycles of 5-min bilateral femoral artery occlusion with 5-min reperfusion. Cardiac function was determined postdetorsion, and the cardioprotective effect of RIPost was examined. Testicular torsion/detorsion-treated rats had reduced serum testosterone levels, impaired systemic hemodynamics, elevated systemic inflammatory responses, and increased serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (α-HBDH), and cardiac troponin I (cTnI). However, RIPost attenuated remote heart dysfunction induced by testicular torsion/detorsion. Furthermore, RIPost enhanced the phosphorylation of ventricular signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3, which is a key component of the survivor activating factor enhancement (SAFE) signaling pathways. Inhibition of STAT-3 with Ag490 abolished the RIPost-induced cardioprotection and STAT-3 phosphorylation. Testicular torsion followed by detorsion may cause impaired cardiac function in rats. RIPost effectively attenuates this remote cardiac dysfunction. RIPost-induced protective effects may be mediated by the STAT-3 signaling pathway.
Flood Hazard Zoning of Upper Awash River Basin, Ethiopia, Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) as Compared to Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Mekonnen Tewodros Mulu , Mitiku Addisalem Bitew , Woldemichael Abel Tadesse
Published: April 2023

Floods and droughts have been two of the most devastating consequences of the climate crisis affecting billions of people in the world. However, unlike the other natural hazards, flooding is manageable through appropriate flood management mechanisms. This study emphasizes on developing a flood hazard zone for the Upper Awash River Basin (UARB), Ethiopia. Six relevant climate, physiographic, and biophysical factors were considered. Then, a flood hazard map was developed employing the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method and further validated using sensitivity analysis and collected flood marks. The results revealed that drainage density, rainfall, and elevation have higher significance, while land use and soil permeability have a low impact in the process of flood generation. The map showed vulnerable areas at different levels and can serve as a valuable input for the decision makers to consider in the process of implementing emergency plans as well as long-term flood mitigation options.
The Application of Interactive Visualization and Computer Vision in Intelligent Education Based on Big Data AI Technology
Authors: Xu Hui
Published: April 2023

Considering the problem that teachers’ command gesture tracking error is due to their poor detection ability in the intelligent education of big data or technology, the application method of interactive visualization and computer vision in the intelligent education of big data or technology is designed. Three-dimensional coordinate transformations of teaching content information and visual processing of teaching information. Use computer vision to detect teachers’ actions and complete computer vision detection of interactive teaching. Using the rendering algorithm, the AI education environment is optimized without affecting computer vision detection. So far, the interactive visualization and computer vision application method design in intelligent big data technology education has been completed. The experimental results show that combining these two technologies can significantly improve the tracking effect of teachers’ instruction gestures, optimize the design effect of teaching content, and raise teaching levels.
An Accurate Phase Interface Locating Algorithm for Pore-Scale Two-Phase Interfacial Flows
Authors: Mei Qiliang , Wu Tianjiang , Li Chao , Zhou Xiaoying
Published: April 2023

Direct numerical simulation of pore-scale flow in porous media at pore scale is a fast developing technique to investigate pore-scale flow behaviors. However, with the decrease of the spatial scale, the interfacial tension of the two-phase interface will have an important impact on the two-phase flow processes. As a result, spurious currents near the interface with this method have an important impact on the numerical accuracy and computational efficiency, seriously affecting the numerical prediction of pore-scale fluid flow. Ghost cell method can greatly reduce the spurious currents near the interface, but it needs to locate the phase interface accurately. In this work, a new method using constant velocity spiral to approximate the two-phase interface is proposed. The method not only considers the curvature of the phase interface but also considers the influence of the curvature change on the phase interface, which greatly improves the ability of the phase interface position. The new method can improve the accuracy of interfacial tension treatment and then improve the prediction ability of volume of fluid in high interfacial tension driven flow. Numerical simulations of capillary rising, droplet spreading on a plane, and bubble rising show that the method is accurate and has a strong engineering application prospect.
Association between Ambient Illumination and Cognitive Impairment: A Population-Based Study of Older
Authors: Shi Tieyi , Chen Baozhong
Published: April 2023

It is well-established that light therapy can alleviate cognitive impairment, and ambient illumination (AI) can quantify the amount of exposure to light. However, the relationship between AI and cognitive impairment has been largely understudied. Objectives. We aimed to examine the cross-sectional associations between AI and impaired cognition using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2011–2013) database. Methods. The correlation between AI and cognitive impairment was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression models. Nonlinear correlations were explored using curve fitting. Results. Multivariate logistic regression yielded an OR of 0.872 (95% CI 0.699, 1.088) for the association between AI and cognitive impairment after adjusting for covariates. Smooth curve fitting showed that the correlation was nonlinear, with an inflection point at 1.22. Conclusions. These results suggested that the level of AI may be linked to cognitive impairment. We found a nonlinear relationship of AI with cognitive impairment.
Automated Traffic State Optimization in the Weaving Area of Urban Expressways by a Reinforcement Learning-Based Cooperative Method of Channelization and Ramp Metering
Authors: Deng Diantao , Yu Bo , Xu Duo , Chen Yuren , Kong You
Published: April 2023

The traffic congestion problem on urban expressways, especially in the weaving areas, has become severe. Some cooperative methods have been proven to be more effective than a separate approach in optimizing the traffic state in weaving areas on urban expressways. However, a cooperative method that combines channelization with ramp metering has not been presented and its effectiveness has not been examined yet. Thus, to fill this research gap, this study proposes a reinforcement learning-based cooperative method of channelization and ramp metering to achieve automated traffic state optimization in the weaving area. This study uses an unmanned aerial vehicle to collect the real traffic flow data, and four control strategies (i.e., two kinds of channelization methods, a ramp metering method, and a cooperative method of channelization and ramp metering) and a baseline (without controls) are designed in the simulation platform (Simulation of Urban Mobility). The speed distributions of different control strategies on each lane were obtained and analyzed in this study. The results show that the cooperative method of channelization and ramp metering is superior to other methods, with significantly higher increases in vehicle speeds. This cooperative method can increase the average vehicle speeds in lane-1, lane-2, and lane-3 by 14.51%, 14.81%, and 37.03%, respectively. Findings in this study can contribute to the improvement of traffic efficiency and safety in the weaving area of urban expressways.
Supplementary Table S2 from Repurposing Ceritinib Induces DNA Damage and Enhances PARP Inhibitor Responses in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Kanakkanthara Arun , Hou Xiaonan , Ekstrom Thomas L. , Zanfagnin Valentina , Huehls Amelia M. , Kelly Rebecca L. , Ding Husheng , Larson Melissa C. , Vasmatzis George , Oberg Ann L. , Kaufmann Scott H. , Mansfield Aaron S. , Weroha S. John , Karnitz Larry M.
Published: April 2023

Supplementary Table S2. PDX models minimal information standard (PDX-MI).