bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
cGAS‐STING pathway agonists are promising vaccine adjuvants
Authors: Tian Xinyu , Ai Jiayuan , Tian Xiaohe , Wei Xiawei
Published: February 2024

Adjuvants are of critical value in vaccine development as they act on enhancing immunogenicity of antigen and inducing long‐lasting immunity. However, there are only a few adjuvants that have been approved for clinical use, which highlights the need for exploring and developing new adjuvants to meet the growing demand for vaccination. Recently, emerging evidence demonstrates that the cGAS‐STING pathway orchestrates innate and adaptive immunity by generating type I interferon responses. Many cGAS‐STING pathway agonists have been developed and tested in preclinical research for the treatment of cancer or infectious diseases with promising results. As adjuvants, cGAS‐STING agonists have demonstrated their potential to activate robust defense immunity in various diseases, including COVID‐19 infection. This review summarized the current developments in the field of cGAS‐STING agonists with a special focus on the latest applications of cGAS‐STING agonists as adjuvants in vaccination. Potential challenges were also discussed in the hope of sparking future research interests to further the development of cGAS‐STING as vaccine adjuvants.
Multicolor melting curve analysis discloses high carrier frequency of hearing loss‐associated variants among neonates in Jiangsu province
Authors: Liu Yi , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Jue , Song Shengnan , Wang Huiyan , Meng Qian , Zhan Yuan , Xu Yetao , Sun Lizhou
Published: February 2024

Background

Genetic disorders ascribe to half of cases of congenital hearing loss. Hearing screening is significant in detecting hearing loss (HL) but weak at diagnosis, which can be complemented by genetic screening.

Methods

To find a feasible method to accomplish genetic screening and evaluate its advantage when combined with hearing screening, between 1 January 2022, and 10 December 2023, we performed an observational cohort study based on 2488 neonates from the Han population at three hospitals in Jiangsu province. Genetic screening for 20 variants in four common HL‐associated genes by multicolor melting curve analysis (MMCA) and hearing screening were offered concurrently to all participants.

Results

In total, 170 (6.8%) of 2488 eligible neonates were detected at least one variant and among them, the proportion of referral was higher (p < 0.05). Genetic screening combined with hearing screening was associated with a 25.0% increase (2 of 8) in discovering cases of diagnosed hearing loss that were missed by hearing screening.

Conclusion

This study suggests that genetic screening combined with hearing screening by MMCA is effective at finding potential HL cases and practical to be validated in other places.
Association of Y chromosome AZF region microdeletions with recurrent miscarriage in Iranian couples: A case–control study
Authors: Pazoki Nasrin , Salehi Mitra , Angaji Seyed Abdolhamid , Abdollahpour‐Alitappeh Meghdad
Published: February 2024

Background

Recent studies have linked recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) to abnormalities in the sperm genome, specifically microdeletions in the azoospermia factor (AZF) region. This study investigated the potential association between Y chromosome microdeletions in the AZF region and RPL in Iranian couples.

Methods

The research presents a case–control study of 240 men: 120 whose partners experienced recurrent miscarriage, and 120 who had successful pregnancies without history of miscarriage. The study used semen parameters, hormone analyses, and microdeletion analysis via multiplex PCR and the YChromStrip kit. Thus, the sequence‐tagged site (STS) markers of AZFa (sY84, sY86), AZFb (sY127, sY134), and AZFc (sY254, sY255) regions were examined.

Results

The variations in semen parameters and sex hormone levels between cases and controls are suggest impaired testicular function in men whose partners had recurrent miscarriages (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the study revealed a negative correlation between sperm count and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) level, and a positive one between sperm motility and testosterone concentration. There were no microdeletions in the control group, while the RPL group showed 20 deletions in AZFb (sY134) (16.66%) and 10 deletions each in AZFb (sY127) (8.33%) and AZFc (sY254) (8.33%).

Conclusion

Microdeletions in sY134 (AZFb) were significantly associated with RPL in Iranian men (p = 0.03). AZF microdeletion screening in couples with RPL can provide valuable information for ethnical genetic counseling and management of recurrent miscarriage. Further studies on larger populations or across various ethnic groups, conclusions and the inclusion of other factors like epigenetic changes explain the role of AZF microdeletions in RPL.
A novel approach to solving system of integral partial differential equations based on hybrid modified block‐pulse functions
Authors: Rostami Yaser , Maleknejad Khosrow
Published: February 2024

In nonlinear this paper, we present a new approach to solve system of two‐dimensionalFredholm–Volterra integral partial differential equations. This approach is based on a new hybrid of two‐dimensional Bernoulli polynomials and modified block‐pulse functions. Different from the traditional methods, in this new approach, the operational matrices are considered. Furthermore, by solving this matrix equation and using the collocation method, approximate solutions for the problem are obtained. Finally, error analysis and three practical examples are provided accuracy and efficiency illustrate our approach.
W‐band multimode monopulse horn feed for reflector antenna
Authors: Chen Yang , Wang Yihui , Meng Hongfu , Dou Wenbin
Published: February 2024

This letter proposes a W‐band multimode monopulse horn (MMH) feed to improve the total efficiency (TE) of the reflector antenna. The feed consists of a MMH and a single‐layer comparator. The MMH utilizes one pyramidal horn and four rectangular waveguides (RWGs) for feeding. The eight electric modes required in the MMH yield excellent sum and difference patterns. The impact of unwanted modes is suppressed using a 90° phase difference approach. The comparator contains four novel 3 dB couplers and E‐plane RWGs, providing low loss and high multiport transmission performance. The MMH feed has been fabricated, tested, and applied to a Cassegrain antenna. The measured maximal TE for the Cassegrain antenna between 90 and 97 GHz is 54.9%. The realized gain of the sum beam is 40.3 dBi at 93.5 GHz. The null depths of difference beams in the azimuth and elevation planes are about −37.7 and −29.1 dB, respectively.
A low‐profile high‐gain filtering patch antenna with harmonic suppression
Authors: Gao Xiao , Zhao Jianping , Qiao Di , Xu Juan
Published: February 2024

A compact high‐gain filtering patch antenna with harmonic suppression characteristic is proposed. The antenna mainly contains a coupled transmission line and a central rectangular patch. The capacitive coupling between the coupled transmission line and the rectangular patch generates a radiating null at high frequencies. Then, acrossing the hybrid coupling principle, the structure of the microstrip‐to‐slotline transition builds two coupling paths, which generate a radiating null at low frequencies. In addition, two vertical slots are carved into the rectangular center patch to truncate the lateral current. That removes the higher order resonant modes and suppresses the parasitic passbands at high frequencies outside the passband. A fabricated 2 × 2 filtering antenna array is measured, showing a bandwidth up to 3.9% (8.68–9.03 GHz), a peak gain of 14.43 dBi, and two near‐band radiation nulls located at 8 and 9.55 GHz, demonstrating good radiation performances and an isolation of 25 dB.
Getting the phase consistent: The importance of phase description in balanced steady‐state free precession MRI of multi‐compartment systems
Authors: Plähn Nils M. J. , Poli Simone , Peper Eva S. , Açikgöz Berk C. , Kreis Roland , Ganter Carl , Bastiaansen Jessica A. M.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Determine the correct mathematical phase description for balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) signals in multi‐compartment systems.

Theory and Methods

Based on published bSSFP signal models, different phase descriptions can be formulated: one predicting the presence and the other predicting the absence of destructive interference effects in multi‐compartment systems. Numerical simulations of bSSFP signals of water and acetone were performed to evaluate the predictions of these different phase descriptions. For experimental validation, bSSFP profiles were measured at 3T using phase‐cycled bSSFP acquisitions performed in a phantom containing mixtures of water and acetone, which replicates a system with two signal components. Localized single voxel MRS was performed at 7T to determine the relative chemical shift of the acetone‐water mixtures.

Results

Based on the choice of phase description, the simulated bSSFP profiles of water‐acetone mixtures varied significantly, either displaying or lacking destructive interference effects, as predicted theoretically. In phantom experiments, destructive interference was consistently observed in the measured bSSFP profiles of water‐acetone mixtures, supporting the theoretical description that predicts such interference effects. The connection between the choice of phase description and predicted observation enables unambiguous experimental identification of the correct phase description for multi‐compartment bSSFP profiles, which is consistent with the Bloch equations.

Conclusion

The study emphasizes that consistent phase descriptions are crucial for accurately describing multi‐compartment bSSFP signals, as incorrect phase descriptions result in erroneous predictions.
Optimising body weight in people with obesity prior to knee or hip arthroplasty: A feasibility study utilising a dietitian‐led low inflammatory diet
Authors: Genel Furkan , Pavlovic Natalie , Gao Manxin , Hackett Danella , Lewin Adriane , Piya Milan , Mills Kathryn , Brady Bernadette , Dennis Sarah , Boland Rob , Harris Ian A. , Flood Victoria M. , Adie Sam , Naylor Justine M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Weight loss is recommended for people with obesity prior to undergoing total knee or hip arthroplasty. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of implementing a dietitian‐led low‐inflammatory weight‐loss diet for people with obesity awaiting arthroplasty. Secondary aims were to report weight change, patient‐reported outcomes, diet compliance, surgery deferment and diet acceptability.

Methods

Eligible participants were enrolled across two sequential periods; Usual Care (UC) was recruited, followed by an intervention period with a dietitian‐led weight‐loss programme (DT). Assessments occurred at baseline, 6‐month and pre‐surgery (11–12 months from baseline). Predefined diet feasibility outcomes included: (i) recruitment rate ≥60%, (ii) ≥60% of DT group reporting ≥10% improved compliance with low‐inflammatory diet by pre‐surgery, (iii) all DT participants attending ≥60% of dietitian consultations, (iv) proportion of DT group losing ≥5% weight double that of UC by pre‐surgery.

Results

Ninety‐seven people participated (UC, n = 47, DT, n = 50). Baseline variables were similar between groups. None of the diet feasibility criteria were fulfilled: 52% of eligible people consented; 57% of DT group improved diet compliance; 72% of DT Group attended ≥60% of dietitian appointments; 31.4% of DT group lost ≥5% weight (compared to 20.6% of UC). Compared to UC group at pre‐surgery, DT group demonstrated modest weight loss (−1.7 kg (95%CI ‐3.5,0.2) versus −0.4 kg (−2.5,1.6)), and decreased waist circumference (−4.8 cm (−6.9,‐2.8) versus −2.2 cm (−5.2,0.7)). Three DT participants declined surgery due to improved symptoms.

Conclusion

Utilisation of a dietitian‐led low‐inflammatory weight‐loss diet was not feasible in this cohort. Suboptimal diet compliance likely explains the modest weight loss results.
Treatment of the infected sacral nerve stimulator: A scoping review
Authors: Wynn Jessica , Kelsey Ellen , McLeod Kathryn
Published: February 2024

Background

Sacral nerve stimulators (SNSs) are a widely accepted, efficacious surgical option to treat patients who have failed conservative management for overactive bladder, nonobstructive urinary retention, fecal incontinence, or pelvic pain. As with all implanted devices, there are associated risks for surgical site and implant infections. There are currently no clear published data or guidelines regarding treating such infections.

Aims

We present a scoping review aiming to examine the existing literature on the treatment approaches of infected SNSs.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis. The search strategy focused on “sacral modulation,” and “infection,” and “explantation,” and conservative management methods such as “antibiotics.” A search was conducted on medical databases, and a grey literature search was performed.

Results

Thirty articles were included for data extraction. Articles were published between 2006 and 2022. Outcomes were reported for 7446 patients. Two hundred and seventy‐four infection events were reported, giving an overall 3.7% infection rate. Most infection events were treated with explantation, although there is some discussion on the role of conservative management using oral and intravenous antibiotics in the literature. Articles also discussed considerations for future reimplantation after explantation of SNS.

Conclusions

There are currently no treatment protocols in the literature to help guide whether a patient is suited to conservative or surgical management. There is future scope for developing treatment algorithms to guide clinicians for optimal treatment of infected sacral neuromodulation devices.
Hyperpolarized 13C magnetic resonance imaging in neonatal hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy: First investigations in a large animal model
Authors: Andelius Ted C. K. , Hansen Esben S. S. , Bøgh Nikolaj , Pedersen Mette V. , Kyng Kasper J. , Henriksen Tine B. , Laustsen Christoffer
Published: February 2024

Early biomarkers of cerebral damage are essential for accurate prognosis, timely intervention, and evaluation of new treatment modalities in newborn infants with hypoxia and ischemia at birth. Hyperpolarized 13C magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a novel method with which to quantify metabolism in vivo with unprecedented sensitivity. We aimed to investigate the applicability of hyperpolarized 13C MRI in a newborn piglet model and whether this method may identify early changes in cerebral metabolism after a standardized hypoxic–ischemic (HI) insult. Six piglets were anesthetized and subjected to a standardized HI insult. Imaging was performed prior to and 2 h after the insult on a 3‐T MR scanner. For 13C studies, [1‐13C]pyruvate was hyperpolarized in a commercial polarizer. Following intravenous injection, images were acquired using metabolic‐specific imaging. HI resulted in a metabolic shift with a decrease in pyruvate to bicarbonate metabolism and an increase in pyruvate to lactate metabolism (lactate/bicarbonate ratio, mean [SD]; 2.28 [0.36] vs. 3.96 [0.91]). This is the first study to show that hyperpolarized 13C MRI can be used in newborn piglets and applied to evaluate early changes in cerebral metabolism after an HI insult.
Pressure injury prevalence in critical care settings: An observational pre‐post intervention study
Authors: Alshahrani Bassam , Middleton Rebekkah , Rolls Kaye , Sim Jenny
Published: February 2024

Aim

To explore pressure injury prevention practices and evaluate the impact of an educational intervention on PI prevalence before and after an educational intervention.

Design

A multi‐centre observational study.

Method

Data were collected at two time points in May 2021 and April 2022 using a Qualtrics® online form. Two Registered Nurses at each site collected observational data at each time point by diagnosing and staging any identified pressure injuries as part of a prevalence study. Patients admitted to participating units were included.

Results

A total of 181 patients in critical care units were included at the two‐time points. Pressure injury prevalence was 60.9% at the outset, with 52.9% hospital‐acquired, 37.9% unit‐acquired and 23.0% medical device‐related. Post‐intervention prevalence decreased significantly to 28.7%, including 21.3% hospital‐acquired, 14.9% unit‐acquired, and 8.5% medical device‐related. Pressure injuries were prominent in the sacral region, head area, and heels. Stages I and II pressure injuries were the most common. Increased age and longer ICU stays are linked to a heightened risk of pressure injury development in critically ill patients, whereas higher haemoglobin levels show an inverse relationship with the development of both pressure injury and severe stages in the univariate analysis. The predictive models revealed that increased age and longer ICU stays are predictors for both pressure injury development and progression to severe stages, while Braden scores predict the likelihood of developing severe stages of pressure injuries.

Conclusions

This study has identified a benchmark for pressure injury prevalence in critical care units in Saudi Arabia. The results demonstrate that pressure injuries can be prevented in critically ill patients when evidence‐based education strategies are implemented.

Patient Care Impact

Pressure injuries are an important issue for critically ill patients and can be prevented with proper investments. Strategies to prevent pressure injuries from admission will result in fewer pressure injuries.

Reporting Method

Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines and the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Antidepressants available in Japan for older people with major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kishi Taro , Sakuma Kenji , Hatano Masakazu , Okumura Takenori , Kato Masaki , Baba Hajime , Iwata Nakao
Published: February 2024

Aim

To update the major depressive disorder (MDD) treatment guidelines of the Japanese Society of Mood Disorders, we conducted a systematic review and pairwise meta‐analysis of double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trials of available antidepressants in Japan for older adults with MDD.

Methods

Outcome measures included response rate (primary), improvement in depressive symptom scale score, remission rate, all‐cause discontinuation, discontinuation due to adverse events, and at least one adverse event. A random‐effects model was used to calculate the risk ratio (RR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

Nine double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trials (n = 2145) were identified. No study has been conducted in Japan. Our meta‐analysis included the following antidepressants: duloxetine, escitalopram, imipramine, sertraline, venlafaxine, and vortioxetine. Antidepressants have significantly higher response rates than placebo (RR [95% CI] = 1.38 [1.04, 1.83], p = 0.02). Antidepressants outperformed placebo in terms of improving depressive symptom scale score (SMD [95% CI] = −0.62 [−0.92, −0.33], p < 0.0001). However, antidepressants were associated with a higher discontinuation rate due to adverse events (RR [95% CI] = 1.94 [1.30, 2.88], p = 0.001) and a higher incidence of at least one adverse event (RR [95% CI] = 1.11 [1.02, 1.21], p = 0.02) compared to placebo. The groups did not differ significantly in terms of remission rate or all‐cause discontinuation.

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis concluded that treatment with antidepressants available in Japan is only weakly recommended for moderate to severe MDD in older adults.
Geometric optimal control of the generalized Lotka–Volterra model of the intestinal microbiome
Authors: Bonnard Bernard , Rouot Jérémy , Silva Cristiana J
Published: February 2024

We introduce the theoretical framework from geometric optimal control for a control system modeled by the generalized Lotka–Volterra equation, motivated by restoring the gut microbiota infected by Clostridium difficile combining antibiotic treatment and fecal injection. We consider both permanent control and sampled‐data control related to the medical protocols.
Cochlear Implantation Outcomes in Pediatric Unilateral Hearing Loss: Impact of Device Use and Direct Input
Authors: Magee Lacey C. , Dunn Camille C. , Vovos Rachel , Zeitler Daniel M. , Schwartz Seth R. , Anne Samantha
Published: February 2024

Objective

To investigate the impact of daily cochlear implant (CI) use on speech perception outcomes among children with unilateral hearing loss (UHL).

Study Design

Multi‐institutional retrospective case series of pediatric patients with UHL who underwent CI between 2018 to 2022.

Setting

Three tertiary children's hospitals.

Methods

Demographics were obtained including duration of deafness and age at CI. Best consonant‐nucleus‐consonant (CNC) word scores and data logs describing hours of CI usage were assessed postimplantation. Use of direct audio input (DAI) during rehabilitation was recorded.

Results

Twenty‐seven children were included, with a mean age at CI of 7.8 years. Mean datalogging time was 7.8 ± 3.0 hours/day. 40.7% of children utilized daily DAI. The mean CNC score using the best score during the study period was 34.9%. There was no significant correlation between hours of CI usage and CNC score. There was a significant improvement in CNC score associated with whether the child used DAI during rehabilitation (CNC 50.91% [yes] vs 23.81% [no]), which remained significant when adjusting for age at CI, duration of deafness, and data log hours.

Conclusion

Unlike children with bilateral hearing loss and CI, children with UHL and CI demonstrate no significant correlation between hours of daily CI usage and CNC scores. However, children who used DAI during postoperative rehabilitation achieved significantly higher CNC scores than those who did not. This suggests that rehabilitation focused on isolated listening with the implanted ear maybe critical in optimizing outcomes with CI in UHL patients.
Antioxidative Stress‐Induced Destruction to Cochlear Cells Caused by Blind Antioxidant Therapy
Authors: Li Liling , Chen Dan , Lin Xuexin , Luo Jia , Tan Jingqian , Ding Dalian , Li Peng
Published: February 2024

Objective

Verification that blind and excessive use of antioxidants leads to antioxidant stress which exacerbates cochlear cell damage.

Study Design

Basic research.

Setting

The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐Sen University.

Methods

We compared and quantified hair cell‐like house ear institute‐organ of corti 1 (HEI‐OC1) cell density, cell viability, and apoptosis caused by different concentrations of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) via Hoechst staining, Cell Counting Kit 8, Hoechst with propidium iodide staining, and Annexin V with propidium iodide (PI) staining. Apoptosis induced by high concentrations of M40403 and coenzyme Q10 in cochlear explants was analyzed and compared by cochlear dissection and activated caspase 3 labeling.

Results

With the increase of NAC concentration (0‐1000 μmol/L), cell density decreased consequently and reached the lowest at 1000 μmol/L (****P ≤ .0001). Cell viability is also declining (**P < .01). The number of Annexin V‐fluorescein isothiocyanate‐labeled cells and PI‐labeled cells increased with increasing NAC concentration after treatment of HEI‐OC1 cells for 48 hours. The proportion of apoptotic cells also rose (*P < .05, **P < .01). Cochlear hair cells (HCs) treated with low concentrations of M40403 and coenzyme Q10 for 48 hours showed no damage. When the concentrations of M40403 and coenzyme Q10 were increased (concentrations＞30 μmol/L), HC damage began, followed by a dose‐dependent increase in HC loss (*P < .001, **P < .0001). Activated caspase‐3 was clearly apparent in cochlear explants treated with 50 μmol/L M40403 and coenzyme Q10 compared with cochlear explants without added M40403 and coenzyme Q10.

Conclusion

These experimental results suggest that inappropriate application of antioxidants can cause severe damage to normal cochlear HCs.
Exploring the antecedents of local governments' sustainability disclosure: The role of the mayor
Authors: Nicolò Giuseppe , L'Abate Vitiana , Raimo Nicola , Vitolla Filippo
Published: February 2024

This work aims to enhance the understanding of Local Governments (LGs)’ sustainability disclosure (SD) practices through their official websites. The ultimate goal of this study is to assess the extent to which certain mayor's personal traits are likely to influence the level of online sustainability information provided by LGs. To this end, a manual content analysis was performed on the official websites of the Italian LGs with more than 40,000 inhabitants to assess the level of SD. A multivariate regression analysis was estimated to examine the extent to which mayors' gender, political ideology, age and education influence the level of sustainability information provided by LGs through websites. Empirical results highlight the crucial role that certain characteristics of LGs' mayor profiles exert on the level of SD. The present work offers an important contribution to the existing literature, as it extends the knowledge of SD practices in an underexplored context, like the LGs and the impact of the mayor's profile on SD levels in LGs.
Improving mechanical and tribological properties of carbon fabric/resin laminated composites by carbon fiber powder
Authors: Yan Jifeng , Fei Jie , Li Chang , Wu Zeyang , Ma Shanshan , Zhang Tengyang , Qi Lehua
Published: February 2024

Carbon fabric/resin laminated composites (CFRC) are extensively used in aerospace, transportation, and other fields owing to their superiorities of lightweight, high strength, and convenient integral molding. Therefore, strong interlaminar binding and prominent wear resistance are urgent requirements for avoiding premature failure of laminated materials in harsh working environments. To elevate the superficial wear resistance and interlaminar bonding strength of composites simultaneously, the modified composites were obtained by introducing carbon fiber powder (CFP) with different densities on the surface of the composites and between layers. The experimental results indicate that CFP can be evenly distributed in the interlaminar resin enrichment zone of the sample (CFRC‐40) when the deposition density is 40 g/m2. Consequently, CFRC‐40 presents optimal thermal conductivity owing to better heat transfer bridges between layers of the composite established by CFP. At the same time, the mechanical properties such as the tensile, impact, and interlaminar shear strengths of CFRC‐40 are improved by 42.8%, 10.2%, and 8.5%, respectively, compared with the original CFRC, which are attributed to the absorption of crack propagation energy and the inhibition of crack propagation by CFP. Furthermore, the dynamic friction coefficient maintains at a high level after introducing CFP with a density of 40 g/m2, while the wear rate significantly decreases by 61.2% from 12.99 × 10−14 m3(N m)−1 to 5.04 × 10−14 m3(N m)−1. This study proposes an innovative strategy to improve the interlaminar bonding of carbon fabric/resin laminated composite, which is conducive to obtaining composite with excellent mechanical and tribological properties.

Highlights

A facile and effectual method was adopted to introduce carbon fiber powder (CFP) into the interlamination and surface of the composites simultaneously.

The mechanical properties and abrasive resistance of the composites were obviously strengthened by regulating the content and distribution of CFP.

CFP at a certain scale, could not only hinder the propagation of cracks but also alleviate the surface wear and extend the service life of composites.
Active carboxymethyl cellulose/polyvinyl alcohol biodegradable packaging film for shelf‐life enhancement: Effects of makrut lime essential oil on Cavendish bananas ripening and fungal spoilage
Authors: Suchaiya Voravadee , Chokboribal Jaroenporn , Khamweera Pemika , Pankaew Piyapong
Published: February 2024

Makrut lime essential oil (MLO) was investigated for ripening deceleration and suppression of fungal spoilage of Cavendish bananas stored at 30.0–37.6°C and 40%–60% relative humidity. The sorbitol‐plasticized composite of carboxymethyl cellulose and polyvinyl alcohol (CMC/PVA; 3:2) was used to distribute MLO droplets (0.5%–3.0%) as it exhibited the best overall tensile properties (15.36 ± 0.90 MPa, 14.9% ± 1.19, and 486.93 ± 81.67 MPa for strength, strain, and Young's modulus, respectively). After 7 days of storage of film‐wrapped Stage‐A1 bananas, growths of the molds on cutting wounds were dramatically suppressed. The 1.0% MLO/CMC/PVA film effectively controlled the spoilages of wounds and stalks. Ripening also occurred at slower pace (by about 2 days; 70.49% weight loss vs. that of the control) when Stage‐B3 bananas were encased in the 1.0% MLO plastic sleeve. However, the MLO coatings negatively affected the appearances and colors and promoted the senescence of the coated bananas at higher MLO concentrations. Compared to the CMC/PVA film, strengths and maximum strains of the 0.5% and 1.0% MLO films were significantly higher. The strength, strain, and modulus of the 1.0% MLO film were 19.50 ± 2.52 MPa, 24.75% ± 3.84, and 562.31 ± 49.71 MPa, respectively. Water vapor transmission rate of the 1.0‐MLO film was also the smallest one (2232 ± 50.91 g/m2·day).

Highlights

The 1.0% MLO/CMC/PVA film exhibited improved tensile properties.

The water vapor transmission rate of the film was the lowest.

The film effectively controlled the spoilages of wounds and stalks.

Bananas encased in sleeves made from the film ripened at slower pace.
The role of teacher critical racial consciousness in cultivating student–teacher relationships and school belonging for Black, Indigenous, and youth of color
Authors: Parra López Ashley , Jones Tiffany M. , Malorni Angie , Diaz Autumn , McCowan Kristin
Published: February 2024

Relationships between students and teachers are a critical protective factor for all students, especially for Black, Indigenous, and youth of color (BIYOC). Critical racial consciousness is the ability to recognize and resist racism. This study explores how teacher critical racial consciousness contributes to shaping learning environments, how teachers perceive their interactions with BIYOC, and BIYOC perceptions of their relationships with their teachers and how their teachers create environments that foster belonging. Data collection consisted of interviews with school teachers (White, n = 7; Black, Indigenous, and people of color, n = 4) and BIYOC (n = 5). Conventional content analysis was used to analyze data. Results indicated that teachers who demonstrated evidence of critical racial consciousness did so by acknowledging their privileged identities, approaching and participating in racial conversations, and handling concerns of race and racism from both BIYOC and other teachers. In turn, students reported feeling a sense of school belonging when teachers created opportunities for BIYOC to raise any concerns surrounding racism and included positive racial/ethnic representation in classroom activities. Study findings provide insights into the importance of teacher critical racial consciousness in creating racially/ethnically inclusive environments that promote school belonging and enhance the quality of relationships between BIYOC and their teachers.
Spindle apparatus coiled‐coil protein 1 (SPDL1) serves as a novel prognostic biomarker in triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Yang Xian‐yan , Zheng Xiao‐xia , Zhai Xue‐jia , Tang Tao , Yu Shi‐cang
Published: February 2024

Background

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) has a poor prognosis, an ineffective diagnosis, and a high degree of aggressiveness. Therefore, novel therapeutic targets for TNBC urgently need to be identified.

Methods

Through a series of bioinformatics analyses, including analysis of differential gene expression, protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network, univariate cox regression, immune infiltration, pathway enrichment, etc, as well as auxiliary immunohistochemistry (IHC) and protein quantitativae analysis, to explore prognostic marker for TNBC.

Results

In TNBC tissues, we found that SPDL1 (CCDC99) was considerably overexpressed at both the mRNA and protein levels compared to that in normal and non‐TNBC tissues. Additionally, we found that SPDL1‐high expression was strongly linked to poor prognosis in TNBC patients. Excessive SPDL1 expression was positively correlated with tumor growth and strongly linked to the cell cycle, DNA replication, and the p53 signaling pathway. In addition, CIBERSORT analysis revealed that SPDL1 can affect the tumor immune microenvironment (TME) in TNBC, encourage the development of TNBC and act as a potential prognostic biomarker for TNBC. Patients with SPDL1‐high expression were more sensitive to AZD8055. Notably, we discovered that SPDL1 is highly expressed in the majority of malignancies and may have an impact on the pancancer prognosis.

Conclusions

SPDL1 can serve as a novel prognostic marker for TNBC and pancancer patients.
Computational evidences of a misfolding event in an aggregation‐prone light chain preceding the formation of the non‐native pathogenic dimer
Authors: Desantis Fausta , Miotto Mattia , Milanetti Edoardo , Ruocco Giancarlo , Di Rienzo Lorenzo
Published: February 2024

Antibody light chain amyloidosis is a disorder in which protein aggregates, mainly composed of immunoglobulin light chains, deposit in diverse tissues impairing the correct functioning of organs. Interestingly, due to the high susceptibility of antibodies to mutations, AL amyloidosis appears to be strongly patient‐specific. Indeed, every patient will display their own mutations that will make the proteins involved prone to aggregation thus hindering the study of this disease on a wide scale. In this framework, determining the molecular mechanisms that drive the aggregation could pave the way to the development of patient‐specific therapeutics. Here, we focus on a particular patient‐derived light chain, which has been experimentally characterized. We investigated the early phases of the aggregation pathway through extensive full‐atom molecular dynamics simulations, highlighting a structural rearrangement and the exposure of two hydrophobic regions in the aggregation‐prone species. Next, we moved to consider the pathological dimerization process through docking and molecular dynamics simulations, proposing a dimeric structure as a candidate pathological first assembly. Overall, our results shed light on the first phases of the aggregation pathway for a light chain at an atomic level detail, offering new structural insights into the corresponding aggregation process.
Identifying novel sources of resistance to wheat stem sawfly in five wild wheat species
Authors: Peirce Erika S , Evers Byron , Winn Zachary J , Raupp W John , Guttieri Mary , Fritz Allan K , Poland Jesse , Akhunov Eduard , Haley Scott , Mason Esten , Nachappa Punya
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The wheat stem sawfly (WSS, Cephus cinctus) is a major pest of wheat (Triticum aestivum) and can cause significant yield losses. WSS damage results from stem boring and/or cutting, leading to the lodging of wheat plants. Although solid‐stem wheat genotypes can effectively reduce larval survival, they may have lower yields than hollow‐stem genotypes and show inconsistent solidness expression. Because of limited resistance sources to WSS, evaluating diverse wheat germplasm for novel resistance genes is crucial. We evaluated 91 accessions across five wild wheat species (Triticum monococcum, T. urartu, T. turgidum, T. timopheevii, and Aegilops tauschii) and common wheat cultivars (T. aestivum) for antixenosis (host selection) and antibiosis (host suitability) to WSS. Host selection was measured as the number of eggs after adult oviposition, and host suitability was determined by examining the presence or absence of larval infestation within the stem. The plants were grown in the greenhouse and brought to the field for WSS infestation. In addition, a phylogenetic analysis was performed to determine the relationship between the WSS traits and phylogenetic clustering.

RESULTS

Overall, Ae. tauschii, T. turgidum and T. urartu had lower egg counts and larval infestation than T. monococcum, and T. timopheevii. T. monococcum, T. timopheevii, T. turgidum, and T. urartu had lower larval weights compared with T. aestivum.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that wild relatives of wheat could be a valuable source of alleles for enhancing resistance to WSS and identifies specific germplasm resources that may be useful for breeding. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Biocontrol activity and potential mechanism of volatile organic compounds from Aspergillus niger strain La2 against pear Valsa canker
Authors: Shi Bingke , Yuan Hongbo , Wang Zhuoni , Fan Yangyang , Qin Genhong , Xiaoqian Li , Wang Li , Tu Hongtao , Hou Hui
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Valsa canker caused by Valsa pyri is one of the most destructive diseases of pear, leading to severe yield and economic losses. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from endophytes have important roles in the regulation of plant disease. In this study, we investigated the biocontrol activity of the endophytic fungus Aspergillus niger strain La2 and its antagonistic VOCs against pear Valsa canker.

RESULTS

Strain La2 exhibited an obvious inhibitory effect against V. pyri. A colonization assay suggested that strain La2 could complete its life cycle on pear twigs. The symptoms of pear Valsa canker were weakened on detached pear twigs after treatment with strain La2. In addition, VOCs from strain La2 also significantly suppressed mycelial growth in V. pyri. Based on the results of headspace solid‐phase microextraction/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis, six possible VOCs produced by strain La2 were detected, of which 2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenol and 4‐methyl‐1‐pentanol were the main antagonistic VOCs in terms of their effect on pear Valsa canker in vitro and in vivo. Further results showed that 4‐methyl‐1‐pentanol could destroy the V. pyri hyphal structure and cell membrane integrity. Importantly, the activities of pear defense‐related enzymes (polyphenol oxidase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase and superoxide dismutase) were enhanced after 4‐methyl‐1‐pentanol treatment in pear twigs, suggesting that 4‐methyl‐1‐pentanol might induce a plant disease resistance response.

CONCLUSION

Aspergillus niger strain La2 and its VOCs 2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenol and 4‐methyl‐1‐pentanol have potential as novel biocontrol agents of pear Valsa canker. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Cyclotides: The next generation in biopesticide development for eco‐friendly agriculture
Authors: Tran Gia‐Hoa , Tran Thi‐Huyen , Pham Son H. , Xuan Huy Luong , Dang Tien T.
Published: February 2024

Chemical pesticides remain the predominant method for pest management in numerous countries. Given the current landscape of agriculture, the development of biopesticides has become increasingly crucial. The strategy empowers farmers to efficiently manage pests and diseases, while prioritizing minimal adverse effects on the environment and human health, hence fostering sustainable management. In recent years, there has been a growing interest and optimism surrounding the utilization of peptide biopesticides for crop protection. These sustainable and environmentally friendly substances have been recognized as viable alternatives to synthetic pesticides due to their outstanding environmental compatibility and efficacy. Numerous studies have been conducted to synthesize and identify peptides that exhibit activity against significant plant pathogens. One of the peptide classes is cyclotides, which are cyclic cysteine‐rich peptides renowned for their wide range of sequences and functions. In this review, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of cyclotides, focusing on their structural attributes, developmental history, significant biological functions in crop protection, techniques for identification and investigation, and the application of biotechnology to enhance cyclotide synthesis. The objective is to emphasize the considerable potential of cyclotides as the next generation of plant protection agents on the global scale.
Reference‐Frame‐Independent Mode‐Pairing Quantum Key Distribution with Advantage Distillation
Authors: Li Yue , Sun Zhongqi , Liu Xinhe , Li Zhenhua , Li Jiaao , Wang Haoyang , Shi Kaiyi , Liu Chang , Ma Haiqiang
Published: February 2024

The coordination between distance and the secure key rate is one of the main challenges in the practical application of quantum key distribution (QKD). Mode‐pairing quantum key distribution is one of the schemes that can surpass the secret key capacity for repeaterless QKD. However, the protocol utilizes phase to encode the information, which leads to the problem of active stabilization in the interferometer. In this paper, a reference‐frame‐independent mode‐pairing quantum key distribution (RFI‐MP‐QKD) is proposed as an effective scheme to solve this problem. Moreover, the performance of the RFI‐MP‐QKD protocol is improved by applying the Advantage Distillation (AD) method in data post‐processing, which separates the highly correlated raw key bits from the weakly correlated information. The simulation results show that the secure key rate of RFI‐MP‐QKD has almost no degradation for reference frame deviation angles of . Compared to RFI‐MP‐QKD without AD method, the AD method decreases the quantum bit error rate from 0.04 to 0.012 and increases the maximum transmission distance from 406 to 450 km. The scheme proposed is expected to facilitate the practical implementation of RFI‐MP‐QKD, especially in cases of concerning reference frame alignment and high channel loss.
Large‐vessel vasculitis induced by pegfilgrastim and immune checkpoint inhibitor in a patient with small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Shiraha Keisuke , Takigawa Yuki , Sato Akiko , Fujiwara Keiichi , Matsuo Yuka , Goda Mayu , Inoue Tomoyoshi , Nakamura Eri , Fujiwara Miho , Matsuoka Suzuka , Watanabe Hiromi , Kudo Kenichiro , Sato Ken , Shibayama Takuo
Published: February 2024

A 75‐year‐old woman with stage IVB (cT3N3M1c) extensive disease small‐cell lung cancer was treated with carboplatin, etoposide, and atezolizumab. Ten days after pegfilgrastim initiation, during the second chemotherapy cycle, she experienced back pain. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography revealed soft tissue thickening around the descending aorta and brachiocephalic artery. She was diagnosed with atezolizumab and pegfilgrastim‐induced large‐vessel vasculitis (LVV) and was treated with prednisolone, which was tapered and discontinued after 14 weeks, with no symptom recurrence. LVV should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients with nonspecific body pain when pegfilgrastim and immune checkpoint inhibitors are used in combination.
Event‐based adaptive resilient control for networked nonlinear systems against unknown deception attacks and actuator saturation
Authors: Cao Yumeng , Niu Ben , Wang Huanqing , Zhao Xudong
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates an event‐triggered adaptive resilient control problem for nonlinear systems against unknown false data injection and actuator saturation. The sensors of the controlled system are subject to unknown false data injection attacks so that all original states can not be directly applied in the controller design process. To address the negative effects of the false data injection attacks, attack compensators are introduced in control design. Simultaneously, a dynamic event‐triggering mechanism is set up to reduce the communication burden of the network. Furthermore, an auxiliary system is constructed to cope with the actuator saturation that commonly exists in practical systems. Based on the Lyapunov stability theory, it is demonstrated that the designed adaptive controller can guarantee the stability of the controlled system and the boundedness of all signals. The validity of the proposed control scheme is evidenced by simulation examples.
Reinforcement learning‐based event‐triggered optimal control for unknown nonlinear systems with input delay
Authors: Chen Xiangyu , Sun Weiwei , Gao Xinci , Li Yongshu
Published: February 2024

The optimal control issue of discrete‐time nonlinear unknown systems with time‐delay control input is the focus of this work. In order to reduce communication costs, a reinforcement learning‐based event‐triggered controller is proposed. By applying the proposed control method, closed‐loop system's asymptotic stability is demonstrated, and a maximum upper bound for the infinite‐horizon performance index can be calculated beforehand. The event‐triggered condition requires the next time state information. In an effort to forecast the next state and achieve optimal control, three neural networks (NNs) are introduced and used to approximate system state, value function, and optimal control. Additionally, a M NN is utilized to cope with the time‐delay term of control input. Moreover, taking the estimation errors of NNs into account, the uniformly ultimately boundedness of state and NNs weight estimation errors can be guaranteed. Ultimately, the validity of proposed approach is illustrated by simulations.
Exploring the feasibility of autonomous forestry operations: Results from the first experimental unmanned machine
Authors: La Hera Pedro , Mendoza‐Trejo Omar , Lindroos Ola , Lideskog Håkan , Lindbäck Torbjörn , Latif Saira , Li Songyu , Karlberg Magnus
Published: February 2024

This article presents a study on the world's first unmanned machine designed for autonomous forestry operations. In response to the challenges associated with traditional forestry operations, we developed a platform equipped with essential hardware components necessary for performing autonomous forwarding tasks. Through the use of computer vision, autonomous navigation, and manipulator control algorithms, the machine is able to pick up logs from the ground and manoeuvre through a range of forest terrains without the need for human intervention. Our initial results demonstrate the potential for safe and efficient autonomous extraction of logs in the cut‐to‐length harvesting process. We achieved a high level of accuracy in our computer vision system, and our autonomous navigation system proved to be highly efficient. This research represents a significant milestone in the field of autonomous outdoor robotics, with far‐reaching implications for the future of forestry operations. By reducing the need for human labor, autonomous machines have the potential to increase productivity and reduce labor costs, while also minimizing the environmental impact of timber harvesting. The success of our study highlights the potential for further development and optimization of autonomous machines in the forestry industry.
A deep learning approach for the comparison of handwritten documents using latent feature vectors
Authors: Kim Juhyeon , Park Soyoung , Carriquiry Alicia
Published: February 2024

Forensic questioned document examiners still largely rely on visual assessments and expert judgment to determine the provenance of a handwritten document. Here, we propose a novel approach to objectively compare two handwritten documents using a deep learning algorithm. First, we implement a bootstrapping technique to segment document data into smaller units, as a means to enhance the efficiency of the deep learning process. Next, we use a transfer learning algorithm to systematically extract document features. The unique characteristics of the document data are then represented as latent vectors. Finally, the similarity between two handwritten documents is quantified via the cosine similarity between the two latent vectors. We illustrate the use of the proposed method by implementing it on a variety of collections of handwritten documents with different attributes, and show that in most cases, we can accurately classify pairs of documents into same or different author categories.