bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extended toolboxes enable efficient biosynthesis of valuable chemicals directly from CO2in fast-growingSynechococcussp. PCC 11901
Authors: Zhang Tong , Li Shubin , Chen Lei , Sun Tao , Zhang Weiwen
Published: August 2023

CO2recycle is crucial to the global carbon neutrality. Though cyanobacteria are known to be photoautotrophic cell factories capable of converting CO2into valuable chemicals, their slower growth rate and lower biomass accumulation compared to those of the heterotrophic organisms significantly restrict their application at commercial scale. The newly discovered marine cyanobacterium, Synechococcus sp. PCC 11901 (hereafter PCC 11901) offers several advantages like rapid growth, high biomass and high salinity tolerance, and could become a new generation of cyanobacterial chassis. To promote its application, in this study we developed genetic toolboxes applicable to PCC11901. First, a cobalamin (VB12)-independent chassis was constructed, allowing for its cheaper cultivation. Second, genome copy numbers and transformation methods were respectively measured and optimized. The 14 neutral sites were identified and characterized within the genome PCC 11901, providing locations for genetic integration of exogenous cassettes. Subsequently, libraries were developed, reaching an expression range of approximately 800 folds for constitutive promoters and an induction fold of up to approximately 400 for inducible promotor, respectively. As a proof of concept of its utilization, we engineered the synthetic pathways of glucosylglycerol (GG) into PCC 11901 using the established toolboxes, yielding 590.41 ± 21.48 mg/L for GG production. Notably, we found the cobalamin-independent PCC 11901 chassis exhibited superior self-sedimentation ability compared to the wild-type chassis. Our work here made it possible to develop the fast-growing PCC 11901 as efficient carbon-neutral cell factory in the future.
YY1 Binding to Regulatory Elements that Lack Enhancer Activity Promotes Locus Folding and Gene Activation
Authors: Gao Zeqian , Wang Miao , Smith Alastair , Boyes Joan
Published: August 2023

Enhancers activate their cognate promoters over huge distances but how enhancer/promoter interactions become established is not completely understood. There is strong evidence that cohesin-mediated loop extrusion is involved but this does not appear to be a universal mechanism. Here, we identify an element within the mouse immunoglobulin lambda (Igλ) light chain locus, HSCλ1, that has characteristics of active regulatory elements but lacks intrinsic enhancer or promoter activity. Remarkably, knock-out of the YY1 binding site from HSCλ1 reduces Igλ transcription significantly and disrupts enhancer/promoter interactions, even though these elements are >10 kb from HSCλ1. Genome-wide analyses of mouse embryonic stem cells identified 3503 similar YY1-bound, putative genome organizing elements that lie within CTCF/cohesin loop boundaries but that lack intrinsic enhancer activity. We suggest that such elements play a fundamental role in locus folding and in facilitating enhancer/promoter interactions.

Highlights

How long-range enhancer-promoter interactions are established is not fully understood An element in the lambda light chain locus, HSCλ1, lacks intrinsic enhancer activity Removal of YY1 binding from HSCλ1 disrupts neighbouring enhancer/promoter contacts Genome-wide analyses detect similar elements that lack enhancer or promoter activity We propose these elements aid locus folding and nearby enhancer-promoter interactions
Diethyl 2,2′-[({2-chloro-5-[(2-ethoxy-2-oxoethyl)(2-methylindolin-1-yl)carbamoyl]phenyl}sulfonyl)azanediyl]diacetate
Authors: Ramli Youssef , Al Garadi Wedad , El Hafi Mohamed , Lhoussaine Elghayati , Essassi El Mokhtar , Alsubari Abdulsalam , Mague Joel T.
Published: August 2023

The majority of the title molecule, C28H34ClN3O9S, is disordered over two closely spaced sets of sites; the site occupancy of the major component = 0.542 (3). The conformation of each component is approximately U-shaped with the chlorobenzene ring forming the base and the indolinyl and sulfamoyl groups the sides; an intramolecular C—H...Cl hydrogen bond possibly contributes to the stabilization of the conformation. In the crystal, a corrugated layer structure parallel to the ab plane is formed by C—H...O and C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds together with C—H...π(ring) interactions.
The role of employee environmental commitment in the green HRM practices, turnover intentions and environmental sustainability nexus
Authors: Suleman Abdul-Razak , Amponsah-Tawiah Kwesi , Ametorwo Aaron Makafui
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The study sought to examine the mediating effect of employee environmental commitment (EEC) in the relationships between green human resource management practices (Green HRMPs) and environmental sustainability (ES) and employee turnover intentions (ETI).

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional survey approach, data was sourced from 296 respondents from five manufacturing firms listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and SmartPLS.

Findings

Results showed that EEC had a partial mediation effect on the relationship between Green HRMPs and ES at the organisational level but fully mediated the relationship between Green HRMPs and ETI at the individual level.

Practical implications

It is evident from the findings that Green HRMPs improve ES and employee stability. Therefore, practitioners and educational institutions should consider integrating environmental concerns into their functional processes and operations. In addition, governments as policymakers should formulate and strengthen the enforcement of already-existing environmental management and sustainability policies that promote the integration of green practices and initiatives in both private and public entities.

Originality/value

Little is known about Green HRM and its effect on organisational and individual-level outcomes, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study presents empirical evidence from an emerging economy.
The influence of online host–guest interaction on listing popularity in peer-to-peer accommodation: the role of listing price and reputation
Authors: Liu Fuzhen , Lai Kee-hung , He Chaocheng
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To promote the success of peer-to-peer accommodation, this study examines the effects of online host–guest interaction as well as the interaction's boundary conditions of listing price and reputation on listing popularity.

Design/methodology/approach

Using 330,686 data collected from Airbnb in the United States of America, the authors provide empirical evidence to answer whether social-oriented self-presentation and response rate influence listing popularity from the perspective of social exchange theory (SET). In addition, the authors investigate how these two kinds of online host–guest interactions work with listing price and reputation to influence listing popularity.

Findings

The results reveal the positive association between online host–guest interaction and listing popularity. Notably, the authors find that listing price strengthens but listing reputation weakens the positive effects of online host–guest interactions on listing popularity in peer-to-peer accommodation.

Originality/value

This study is the first attempt to adopt SET to explain the importance of online host–guest interactions in influencing listing popularity as well as examine the moderating role of listing price and reputation on the above relationship.
Progress in network orchestration research and future prospects: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaorui , He Di
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Network orchestration has received widespread attention from scholars engaged in network-relationship governance research. This study aims to explore progress in network orchestration research and future prospects.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, 105 articles related to network orchestration from the Web of Science Core Collection Database for the period 2006–2022 are collected as sample data, and bibliometric relationship maps of network orchestration research are visually presented using the CiteSpace software.

Findings

First, this study presents distributions of articles, methods, journals, authors, institutions and countries/regions in network orchestration research. Second, based on a reference co-citation analysis, three articles are identified as the key literature in network orchestration research. Based on a keyword co-occurrence analysis, the hotspots are found to include studies related to overall network and individual levels. A cluster analysis reveals six themes: innovation ecosystem, sustainable development, product development, sourcing, hub firm and innovation network. From a burst detection analysis, three frontiers emerge: organisation, collaboration and governance. Finally, some future research directions are proposed and important issues are raised.

Originality/value

This study is the first to reveal the progress of network orchestration research using quantitative bibliometric methods, and it provides insights to scholars and offers practitioners with a better understanding of network orchestration.
TLR2 mediates autophagy through ERK signaling pathway in Chlamydia psittaci CPSIT_p7 protein‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells
Authors: Luo Ying , Sun Zhenjie , Chen Qian , Xiao Jian , Yan XiaoLiang , Li Yumeng , Wu Yimou
Published: August 2023

Chlamydia psittaci is a zoonotic pathogen found in birds and humans. Macrophages, major components of the innate immune system, can resist chlamydial infections and trigger adaptive immune responses. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of macrophages against C. psittaci infection are not well understood. This study investigated the roles and mechanisms of plasmid‐encoded protein CPSIT_p7 of C. psittaci in regulating autophagy in RAW264.7 cells. The results demonstrated that stimulation of RAW264.7 with C. psittaci plasmid protein CPSIT_p7 induced the expressions of the autophagy signaling primary regulators LC3 and Beclin1, which could also significantly induce the phosphorylation levels of ERK, JNK, p38, and Akt. Next, siRNA knockdown of TLR2 resulted in significant downregulation of CPSIT_p7‐triggered autophagy in RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, the extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) inhibitor PD98059 markedly reduced autophagy in CPSIT_p7‐stimulated macrophages. In summary, these results indicated that TLR2 plays an essential role in the induction of autophagy through the ERK signaling pathway in CPSIT_p7‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells.
Effect of potato starch coating containing selected amino acids to prevent the formation of PhIP in pan‐fried chicken breast
Authors: Farshi Parastou , Hashempour‐Baltork Fatane , Amamcharla Jayendra , Smith J. Scott
Published: August 2023

The effects of potato starch (PS) coating containing amino acids (AAs) on the formation of 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo [4,5‐b] pyridine (PhIP) in chicken breasts were evaluated. PhIP is classified as a Group 2B carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The 5% (w/w) gelatinized PS coating solution was incorporated with tryptophan (Trp) or lysine (Lys) at 0.25%, 0.5%, and 0.75% (w/w of the coating solution) concentrations. Chicken breast cuts with the same dimensions (5 × 2 × 1.5 cm) were dipped in the PS coating solution for 15 min before frying. After frying the chicken at 195°C for 7.5 min on each side, PhIP levels, color, cooking loss, tenderness, and texture profile assay were evaluated. The average PhIP concentration was decreased from 92.62 ng/g for the control chicken breast without coating to 6.30 ng/g (0.25% Lys), 6.76 ng/g (0.5% Lys), and 11.98 ng/g (0.75% Lys), accounting for an 89%–92% reduction in PhIP levels compared to the controls. However, dipping in Trp‐containing PS coating had a significantly lower (p < 0.05) PhIP reduction effect (34%–67%). There was no significant difference in cooking loss percentage, tenderness, texture profile parameters, and color parameters of PS‐coated chicken. Triangle test results showed that consumers did not detect a significant difference in the PS‐coated chicken breasts (p < 0.001). Overall, this study suggests that the application of PS‐based coatings incorporated with AAs on chicken breast reduces the PhIP formation.
Acute myeloid leukaemia in Afghanistan: Understanding an unfamiliar landscape
Authors: Hills Robert K.
Published: August 2023

The paper by Noor et al. in this issue provides important and interesting data on the incidence and outcomes of patients with acute myeloid leukaemia in Afghanistan. The age of patients is much lower than we are used to seeing in the West, reflecting in part the particular demographics of the country; these data provide an important first step to identifying areas for improvement.

Commentary on: Noor et al. Demographic and clinical characteristics of acute myeloid leukaemia diagnosed and treated at tertiary level in Afghanistan. Br J Haematol 2023;203:404–410.
Who cares about monarch butterflies? Comparing US State Wildlife Action Plans 2015–2025
Authors: Harris Katie M. , Hall Damon M. , Finke Deborah L.
Published: August 2023

In 2023, the International Union for Conservation of Nature listed the iconic North American monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) as Vulnerable due to population declines. Yet, in the United States, there are no national laws protecting monarchs. In 2020, the US Fish and Wildlife Service determined that monarchs are “warranted” for US Endangered Species listing, although this listing was “precluded” because of lack of agency resources. In the absence of federal laws, individual US state—sub‐national—wildlife agencies play an essential role in monarch conservation. State wildlife agencies document decadal plans for at‐risk species conservation via State Wildlife Action Plans (SWAPs). We analyzed all 2015–2025 SWAPs to assess and compare state‐level monarch conservation efforts. We found monarch representation in SWAPs varied widely and lacked geographic alignment with actual conservation needs and interstate coordination. For example, in the contiguous United States, 15 states that occupy critical monarch migration corridors omit listing monarchs as a species of conservation need; 10 of these states have critical breeding habitat. This limited attention in critical areas of monarch flyways is troubling. States can improve upcoming 2025–2035 plans by coordinating efforts to conserve monarch habitat across the entire migration corridor.
The proximal volcaniclastic materials of Fukutoku‐Oka‐no‐Ba in the Izu‐Bonin arc show contrasting characteristics to the drift pumice of the 2021 eruption
Authors: Yoshida Kenta , Tamura Yoshihiko , Sato Tomoki , Tanaka Erika , Tada Noriko , Hamada Morihisa , Hanyu Takeshi , Chang Qing , Ono Shigeaki
Published: August 2023

Fukutoku‐Oka‐no‐Ba is a submarine volcano located at 24°17.1′ N/141°28.9′ E in the Izu–Bonin arc, and is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan. This volcano produced an explosive eruption in August 2021 that generated a large amount of volcaniclastic material, some of which drifted westward to Japan and the coastal area of East Asia as a pumice raft. The pumice clasts that drifted for >1000 km were mostly homogeneous and identical to those produced by past historical eruptions. The clasts have trachytic compositions (SiO2 = 61–63 mass% and Na2O + K2O = 8.6–10.0 mass%) and contain augite, plagioclase, olivine (Mg# ~65), and magnetite, along with a small number of mafic enclaves containing diopside and high‐Mg olivine (Mg# ~ 92). We undertook a research cruise to investigate the proximal volcaniclastic materials by dredging. The proximal materials include pumice, weakly vesiculated lapilli, and volcanic blocks, which have trachytic composition (SiO2 contents up to 64.5 mass%). The main minerals in the proximal material are similar to those in the drift pumice, although remnants of mafic magma do not occur in the SiO2‐rich samples. The petrographic and geochemical characteristics of the proximal and drift ejecta from Fukutoku‐Oka‐no‐Ba suggest the magma reservoir was stratified into two parts. The major part experienced magma mixing with a limited volume of mafic magma, whereas the other part was more differentiated. The differentiated high‐SiO2 magma accumulated in the upper part of the magma reservoir and avoided the mixing with and feed of volatile from the mafic magma, then were pushed out from the volcanic vent without extensive bubbling to sunk in the proximal area.
Determination of glucosinolates in broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) by combining mid‐infrared (MIR) spectroscopy with chemometrics
Authors: Ali Redha Ali , Langston Faye , Nash Geoffrey R. , Bows John R. , Torquati Luciana , Gidley Michael J. , Cozzolino Daniel
Published: August 2023

Glucosinolates (GSLs), compounds with potential chemo‐preventative properties, can be affected by pre‐ and post‐harvest processes. Therefore, monitoring their content is important for the food and agricultural industries. This study evaluates the application of mid‐infrared (MIR) spectroscopy for the determination of GSLs in commercial broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica). Broccoli (n = 53) from different varieties were analysed using MIR spectroscopy and high‐performance liquid chromatography to develop partial least squares models for six individual GLSs, total indolic glucosinolates and total GSLs. The coefficient of determination in cross‐validation () of 0.50–0.78 whereas residual predictive deviation (RPD) values of 1.35–2.19 for different GSLs. Cross‐validation models developed using Tenderstem® broccoli yielded an of 0.41–0.91 and an RPD of 0.81–2.97. This study showed that MIR spectroscopy can be considered for the determination of some broccoli GSLs. Differences in the loadings between the models demonstrated that variations in broccoli composition can influence the cross‐validation models for GSLs.
Getting interested in interests for employee selection: Key concerns and areas for future research
Authors: Nye Christopher D. , Hoff Kevin A.
Published: August 2023

The paper by Wille and De Fruyt suggests that vocational interests should be used throughout the human resources cycle and provides a useful model that can facilitate the application of interests throughout this process. This commentary builds on their review to discuss the unique benefits and challenges of implementing vocational interests in the employee selection process. Using research from the employee selection literature, we also discuss potential solutions for many of the issues raised by Wille and De Fruyt. Therefore, our commentary is meant to supplement the focal article and answer specific questions about why and how vocational interests can be used in this high‐stakes setting.
Why should interests not be a matter for HR only? Commentary on Wille and De Fruyt (2023)
Authors: Ziebell de Oliveira Manoela , Moreira Thaline Cunha
Published: August 2023

This invited commentary critically examines the article “The resurrection of vocational interests in human resources research and practice: Evidence, challenges, and a working model” by Wille and De Fruyt. It offers additional perspectives on expanding the discussion on interests within human resources (HR), supporting leaders in conducting career conversations, and integrating career education into HR practices. The commentary emphasizes the importance of considering organizational interests, training leaders for effective dialog, and providing career development opportunities. By addressing these areas, HR practices can better align individual aspirations with organizational goals and enhance employee engagement and long‐term employability.
Vocational training during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Under what conditions does the public support state subsidies for training firms?
Authors: Heusler Anna , Senghaas Monika
Published: August 2023

This article presents novel empirical findings on whether and under what conditions the public supports apprenticeship subsidies paid to training firms during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Drawing on the literature on justice research and deservingness theory, we construct an experimental factorial survey among individuals from German administrative records. The findings suggest selective support targeting the neediest firms, for example, small firms and firms strongly affected economically. Furthermore, we find that perceived deservingness is higher for firms offering apprenticeships in an area of skill shortage. Our results furthermore suggest that personal characteristics impact the assessment of the distribution of state support.
Association between lean body mass and hypertension: A cross‐sectional study of 50 159 NHANES participants
Authors: Li Siyi , Jiao Huachen , Yang Jie , Li Yan , Zhang Juan , Liu Xiujuan , Xue Yitao
Published: August 2023

Increasing attention has been paid to the association between lean body mass (LBM) and hypertension in recent years, but the previous findings have often been contradictory. Therefore, the authors investigated the association between LBM and hypertension through a cross‐sectional study in the United States. To investigate the relationship between LBM and hypertension, the authors conducted weighted multivariable logistic regression models. The authors used the restricted cubic spline regression model to determine if there was a nonlinear correlation. In order to locate the inflection point, the authors built a two‐part linear regression model using a recursive method. In the full adjustment model, LBM was positively associated with hypertension, with ORs (95% CI) of 1.19 (1.02, 1.38). In the further linear trend test, the ORs (95% CI) for Q2, Q3, and Q4 were 0.76 (0.60, 0.95), 0.62 (0.47, 0.80), and 0.66 (0.48, 0.91), respectively, compared to Q1, which suggested that the association between LBM and hypertension might be non‐linear. The authors performed the restricted cubic spline curve to confirm this non‐linear relationship and found the inflection point of 43.21 kg with an opposite relationship in which LBM and hypertension exhibited a negative correction of 0.66 (0.50, 0.86) before the inflection point and a positive correlation of 1.20 (1.03, 1.39) after the inflection point. Our study highlighted a non‐linear association between LBM and hypertension in the general US population.
Drug‐related readmissions in older hospitalized adults: External validation and updating of OPERAM DRA prediction tool
Authors: Snijders Birgitta M. G. , Kempen Thomas G. H. , Aubert Carole E. , Koek Huiberdina L. , Dalleur Olivia , Donzé Jacques , Rodondi Nicolas , O'Mahony Denis , Gillespie Ulrika , Knol Wilma
Published: August 2023

Background

Drug‐related readmissions (DRAs) are defined as rehospitalizations with an adverse drug event as their main or significant contributory cause. DRAs represent a major adverse health burden for older patients. A prediction model which identified older hospitalized patients at high risk of a DRA <1 year was previously developed using the OPERAM trial cohort, a European cluster randomized controlled trial including older hospitalized patients with multimorbidity and polypharmacy. This study has performed external validation and updated the prediction model consequently.

Methods

The MedBridge trial cohort (a multicenter cluster randomized crossover trial performed in Sweden) was used as a validation cohort. It consisted of 2516 hospitalized patients aged ≥65 years. Model performance was assessed by: (1) discriminative power, assessed by the C‐statistic with a 95% confidence interval (CI); (2) calibration, assessed by visual examination of the calibration plot and use of the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness‐of‐fit test; and (3) overall accuracy, assessed by the scaled Brier score. Several updating methods were carried out to improve model performance.

Results

In total, 2516 older patients were included in the validation cohort, of whom 582 (23.1%) experienced a DRA <1 year. In the validation cohort, the original model showed a good overall accuracy (scaled Brier score 0.03), but discrimination was moderate (C‐statistic 0.62 [95% CI 0.59–0.64]), and calibration showed underestimation of risks. In the final updated model, the predictor “cirrhosis with portal hypertension” was removed and “polypharmacy” was added. This improved the model's discriminative capability to a C‐statistic of 0.64 (95% CI 0.59–0.70) and enhanced calibration plots. Overall accuracy remained good.

Conclusions

The updated OPERAM DRA prediction model may be a useful tool in clinical practice to estimate the risk of DRAs in older hospitalized patients subsequent to discharge. Our efforts lay the groundwork for the future development of models with even better performance.
Replacing device‐measured sedentary time with physical activity is associated with lower risk of coronary heart disease regardless of genetic risk
Authors: Kim Youngwon , Jang Haeyoon , Wang Mengyao , Shi Qiaoxin , Strain Tessa , Sharp Stephen J , Yeung Shiu Lun Au , Luo Shan , Griffin Simon , Wareham Nicholas J. , Wijndaele Katrien , Brage Soren
Published: August 2023

Background

Excess sedentary time (ST) is recognized as an important modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD). However, whether the associations of genetic susceptibility with CHD incidence can be modified by replacing wearable‐device‐measured ST with physical activity (PA) is unknown.

Objectives

To examine the associations of wearable‐device‐measured ST replaced by PA with incident CHD across strata of genetic susceptibility.

Methods

This study included 77,500 White British (57% female) with valid wrist‐worn accelerometry and without prevalent CHD/stroke from UK Biobank. Genetic susceptibility to CHD was quantified through weighted polygenic risk scores for CHD based on 300 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. Wrist‐worn accelerometer data were used to derive ST, light PA, and moderate‐to‐vigorous PA (MVPA).

Results

Reallocation of 60 min/day of ST into the same amount of MVPA was associated with approximately 9% lower relative risk of CHD for all participants and across strata of genetic risk: replacement of 1 min/day of ST associated with <1% lower relative risk of CHD. No evidence of interaction (p: 0.784) was found between genetic risk and ST for CHD risk. Reallocating 60 min/day of ST into the same MVPA time was associated with greater absolute CHD risk reductions at high genetic risk (0.27%) versus low genetic risk (0.15%).

Conclusions

Replacing any amount of ST with an equal amount of MVPA time is associated with a lower relative risk of CHD, irrespective of genetic susceptibility to CHD. Reductions in CHD absolute risk for replacing ST with MVPA are greater at high genetic risk versus low genetic risk.
Does Cooperation with Others Reduce Risky Gambling Behavior?1
Authors: Takada Takuhiro , Kono Masanori , Yokomitsu Kengo
Published: August 2023

Social relationships are highly salient for problem gambling. This study investigated the effect of others' presence or cooperation with others on risky gambling behavior among healthy undergraduate students. Based on the findings that individual differences moderate the social facilitation effect and team performance, we also focused on personality traits. A total of 36 participants completed the Game of Dice Task (GDT) in three conditions, within a crossover design: the sole condition (each participant conducted the GDT individually), the parallel condition (each participant conducted the GDT in parallel with another participant), and the cooperation condition (participants conducted the GDT at the same time and were told to consult with each other). Before the experiment, all participants completed the NEO Five Factor Inventory. The results showed no significant differences among the sole, parallel, and cooperation conditions in terms of risky gambling behavior. However, safer gambling behavior in the cooperation condition was significantly and positively correlated with conscientiousness. These findings suggest that a new harm‐reduction strategy focusing on cooperation with others while gambling could be developed.
Allelochemicals and soil microorganisms jointly mediate sex‐specific belowground interactions in dioecious Populus cathayana
Authors: Xia Zhichao , He Yue , Korpelainen Helena , Niinemets Ülo , Li Chunyang
Published: August 2023

Little is known about how sex differences in root zone characteristics, such as contents of allelochemicals and soil microbial composition, mediate intra‐ and intersexual interactions in dioecious plants.

We examined the processes and mechanisms of sex‐specific belowground interactions mediated by allelochemicals and soil microorganisms in Populus cathayana females and males in replicated 30‐yr‐old experimental stands in situ and in a series of controlled experiments.

Female roots released a greater amount and more diverse phenolic allelochemicals into the soil environment, resulting in growth inhibition of the same sex neighbors and deterioration of the community of soil microorganisms. When grown with males, the growth of females was consistently enhanced, especially the root growth. Compared with female monocultures, the presence of males reduced the total phenolic accumulation in the soil, resulting in a shift from allelopathic inhibition to chemical facilitation. This association was enhanced by a favorable soil bacterial community and increased bacterial diversity, and it induced changes in the orientation of female roots.

Our study highlighted a novel mechanism that enhances female performance by males through alterations in the allelochemical content and soil microbial composition. The possibility to improve productivity by chemical mediation provides novel opportunities for managing plantations of dioecious plants.
Left ventricular endocardial activation maps during right ventricular pacing in pediatric patients
Authors: Silvetti Massimo Stefano , Ravà Lucilla , Drago Fabrizio
Published: August 2023

Background

Cardiac pacing from right ventricular (RV) sites may cause electromechanical ventricular dyssynchrony. Invasive and noninvasive mapping studies showed left ventricular (LV) activation sequence in adults. Aim of this study was to seek out the LV endocardial activation (LVEA) in pediatric patients who underwent RV pacing.

Methods

Single‐center, prospective study conducted on pediatric patients who underwent left sided catheter ablation of accessory pathways with the Carto Univu mapping system. After successful ablation procedures, LVEA was recorded by the ablation catheter during sinus rhythm (SR) and during para‐hisian (PHP), midseptum (MSP), and apical (RVAP) pacing.

Results

Seventeen patients, 13 males, aged 12 (10–15) years, registered LV activation maps and times (LVAT). SR showed significantly shorter LVAT than during pacing. LVAT of PHP was shorter than MSP, while there were not significant differences among PHP and MSP versus RVAP. In SR initial LV endocardial activation occurred in two midseptum sites, inferior‐posterior and superior‐anterior. During PHP, initial activation occurred at parahisian basal septum, rapidly followed by midseptum as in SR. During MSP and RVAP initial activation occurred at midseptum and apex, respectively. From all initial sites, the excitation spreads toward the base of the lateral LV free wall. A mild linear correlation was found between QRS duration and LVAT for MSP and for PHP.

Conclusions

In pediatric patients LVEA maps during RV pacing showed that the shortest LVAT was obtained with PHP. The LV activation pattern seemed similar in sinus rhythm, PHP and MSP, from midseptum to LV lateral base.
Exogenously applied sodium nitroprusside alleviates nickel toxicity in maize by regulating antioxidant activities and defense‐related gene expression
Authors: Abbas Saghir , Basit Farwa , Tanwir Kashif , Zhu Xiaobo , Hu Jin , Guan Yajing , Hu Weimin , Sheteiwy Mohamed S. , Yang Haishui , El‐Keblawy Ali , El‐Tarabily Khaled A. , AbuQamar Synan F. , Lou Jianfeng
Published: August 2023

Nickel (Ni) stress adversely affects plant growth and biomass accumulation, posturing severe menace to crop production and food security. The current study aimed to determine the putative role of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) in mitigating Ni‐induced phytotoxicity and identify the underlying defense mechanisms in maize, which are poorly understood. Our findings showed that SNP significantly augmented plant growth, biomass, and photosynthesis‐related attributes (Fv/Fm, Fm, qP ETR, and ΦPSII) through diminishing Ni uptake and translocation in root and shoot tissues of maize under Ni stress conditions. In parallel, exogenous SNP substantially relieved maize seedlings from Ni‐induced stress by enhancing enzymatic (SOD, CAT, and GPX) and non‐enzymatic (phenol and flavonoids) antioxidant defenses and reducing oxidative stress indicators (MDA and H2O2). The results revealed that SNP treatment increased the content of organic osmolyte glycine betaine and the activity of GST, concomitantly with ATP and ionic exchange capacity (including Ca2+‐ATPase and Mg2+‐ATPase), advocating its sufficiency to promote plant growth and avert Ni‐induced stress in maize plants. The only exception was the production of organic acids (citric, oxalic, malic, and formic acids), which was reduced as SNP treatment relieved maize seedlings from Ni‐induced oxidative damage. The application of SNP also displayed higher expression of defense‐ and detoxifying‐related genes than in control treatments. Together, our data highlighted the mechanism involved in the amelioration of Ni toxicity by SNP; thus, suggesting a potential role of SNP in mitigating the adverse effects of Ni‐contaminated soils to boost growth and yield of crop plants, that is, maize.
Can German vocational training combat skill shortages in developing countries? Evidence from dual training system in the Philippines
Authors: Yamauchi Futoshi , Kim Taejong , Lee Kye Woo , Tiongco Marites
Published: August 2023

This paper examines the labor market impacts of the Philippine Dual Training System (DTS), a vocational training program that combines firm‐based on‐the‐job training (OJT) and conventional institution‐based training, using a recent survey that tracked graduates from DTS and regular institution‐based programs. The estimation results using fuzzy regression discontinuity design show a significantly positive impact on the most recent monthly earnings. The impact significantly increases with the OJT intensity, measured by the number of hours a week in OJT. The above results imply that vocational training has to be aligned with actual production technologies and work practices to narrow skill gaps and create positive returns.
Characterization of antibodies to SARS‐CoV‐2 in lyophilized plasma prepared with amotosalen‐UVA pathogen reduction
Authors: Martinaud Christophe , Bagri Anil , Tsai Cheng‐Ting , de Assis Rafael R. , Gatmaitan Michelle , Robinson Peter V. , Seftel David , Khan Saahir , Felgner Philip L. , Corash Laurence M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)‐infected patients exhibit disease ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia, multi‐organ failure, and death. convalescent COVID plasma (CCP) from recovered patients with high levels of neutralizing antibodies has demonstrated therapeutic efficacy to reduce the morbidity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) in some studies. The development of assays to characterize the activity of CCP to neutralize SARS‐CoV‐2 infectivity offers the possibility to improve potential therapeutic efficacy. Lyophilization of CCP may increase the availability of this therapy. We hypothesized that SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody profiles of pooled lyophilized pathogen‐reduced CCP from COVID‐19‐recovered blood donors retains virus‐neutralizing efficacy as reported for frozen pathogen‐reduced CCP.

Methods

Pooled lyophilized pathogen‐reduced plasma was prepared from recovered COVID plasma donors. Antibodies to SARS‐CoV‐2 were characterized in each donor plasma prior to pathogen reduction and lyophilization and after lyophilization of individual CCP, and in the lyophilized CCP pool. Several complimentary assays were used to characterize antibody levels, neutralizing capacity, and the spectrum of antigen reactivity. The mean values for individual plasma samples and the value in the pool were compared.

Results

The mean ratio for antibody binding to SARS‐CoV‐2 antigens before and after treatment was 0.95 ± 0.22 mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) units. Antibody activity to an array of influenza virus antigens demonstrated a mean activity ratio of 0.92 ± 0.12 MFI before and after treatment.

Conclusions

The antibody activity in pooled pathogen‐reduced lyophilized CCPs demonstrated minimal impact due to pathogen reduction treatment and lyophilization.
Realization of GKM fibrations and new examples of Hamiltonian non-Kähler actions
Authors: Goertsches Oliver , Konstantis Panagiotis , Zoller Leopold
Published: August 2023

We classify fibrations of abstract $3$-regular GKM graphs over $2$-regular ones, and show that all fibrations satisfying the known necessary conditions for realizability are, in fact, realized as the projectivization of equivariant complex rank-$2$ vector bundles over quasitoric $4$-manifolds or $S^4$. We investigate the existence of invariant (stable) almost complex, symplectic, and Kähler structures on the total space. In this way, we obtain infinitely many Kähler manifolds with Hamiltonian non-Kähler actions in dimension $6$ with prescribed one-skeleton, in particular with a prescribed number of isolated fixed points.
Pathological Study of Light Cupula Syndrome on a Visual Bionic Semicircular Canal
Authors: Bian Yixiang , Zhang Yu , Gong Junjie , Jiang Yani
Published: August 2023

A type of persistent direction-changing positional nystagmus with a null point during head position deflection is known as light cupula syndrome (LCS) in the clinic. To date, the pathogenesis and biomechanical response of human semicircular canals with light cupula syndrome (LCS) (HSCs–LCS) are still unclear. In this study, based on the anatomical structure and size of the one-dimensional human semicircular canal (HSC) and imitating the pathological changes of the endolymph in HSC with LCS, a visual bionic semicircular canal (BSC) with LCS was fabricated using three-dimensional printing technology, hydrogel modification, and target tracking technology. Through theoretical derivation, mathematical models of the HSC–LCS perception process were established. By conducting in vitro experiments on the bionic model, the biomechanical response process of HSC–LCS was studied, and the mathematical models were validated. The results of pulse acceleration stimulation showed that the pathological changes in the density and viscosity of the endolymph could reduce the deformation of the cupula of the BSC–LCS and increase the time constant. The results of the sinusoidal acceleration stimulation showed that the amplitude–frequency gain of the BSC–LCS decreased and the phase difference increased. The BSC-LCS can be used as a tool for pathological research of the HSC–LCS. The results of this study can provide a theoretical basis for clinical diagnosis.
A Correction Method for the Effects of Reynolds Number, Roughness, and Tip Clearance on Geometric Scaling of Axial Compressors
Authors: Liu Yitong , Gong Wuqi , Liang Lu , Wang Qi
Published: August 2023

The geometric scaling method is often used in the design and development of axial compressors to reduce high costs. However, Reynolds number, surface roughness, and tip clearance are often difficult to satisfy all the similarity criteria, which breaks the similarity between the Prototype and the Model compressor. This study utilized a 1.5-stage axial compressor as the Prototype to investigate the effects of Reynolds number, surface roughness, and tip clearance on the geometric scaling process. First, the 0.5 scale Model compressor was simulated using RANS method with the scalable wall function. A test facility was constructed for the 0.5 scale Model compressor, and experiments of varying surface roughness and tip clearance were carried out to verify the reliability of the numerical method. Then, the Prototype and Models with scaling factors of 0.4 and 0.33 were simulated using the same numerical method. By analyzing the numerical results of the Prototype and the three Models, a novel correction method for the deviation between the performance of the Prototype and the Model was proposed. This method can be used to correct the deviation of compressors' performance curves caused by the change in Reynolds number, surface roughness, and tip clearance during the geometric scaling process. Meanwhile, both numerical and experimental results were used to validate the accuracy and the universal applicability of the method.
Axial Ventilation and Blade Row Effects on Transient Natural Convective Shutdown Cooling in a Gas Turbine
Authors: Fahy Daniel D. , Ireland Peter
Published: August 2023

As a large civil gas turbine is cooling following operation, natural convective flows cause components to cool asymmetrically—the bottom sector cools faster than the top sector. This can lead to a number of issues that have the potential to damage engine components and affect operability. The ability to predict and understand this transient cooling cycle of a gas turbine has proven to be extremely difficult, owing to the complex nature of natural convective flow physics and its dependency on a considerable number of design parameters. An experimental and numerical investigation into the impact of axial ventilation (interaction between the annulus and the external air) and blade rows on the natural convective flow field in a large civil gas turbine high-pressure compressor has led to some key discoveries. Axial ventilation caused a 70% increase in the peak top-to-bottom temperature difference in the cooling cycle, when compared to the baseline sealed case. The combinations of four blade rows and axial ventilation caused a 130% increase in peak temperature difference over the baseline case. Numerical simulations illuminated that the root cause of this was the cold air drawn into the lower section of the annulus led to a relatively high heat flux, coupled with a blockage effect on the natural draft in the upper section of the annulus inhibiting the convective heat transfer from this section. There appears to be a relationship between the porosity of the annulus and the peak top-to-bottom temperature difference that was observed. This study on the impact of two parameters on the shutdown cooling of a simplified gas turbine annulus has highlighted their importance and inter-dependency in defining the level of rotor bow that is observed. Therefore, it is imperative that these effects are included and sufficiently captured in order for a shutdown cooling prediction method to be accurate.
Hawai‘i, from ashes to sustainability
Authors: Fox Keolu
Published: August 2023

Driven by fierce winds and dry, hot conditions, the fire that consumed Maui’s Lahaina—the deadliest US fire in more than a century—is a sad, stark reminder of the environmental pressures on the Hawaiian islands caused by overdevelopment and industrial tourism. As Maui emerges from the ashes, there is an opportunity to reimagine the governance of habitats through sustainable and equitable processes that preserve Hawai‘i’s natural beauty, with a less destructive, green economy that centers on ecotourism and Indigenous environmental management.
The interplay between Epstein-Barr virus DNA and gut microbiota in the development of arthritis in a mouse model
Authors: Fadlallah Sukayna , Bitar Elio R. , Hussein Hadi , Jallad Mary-Ann , Matar Ghassan M. , Rahal Elias A.
Published: August 2023

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA may influence the development of autoimmune diseases by increasing the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Such cytokines have been associated with inducing the dysbiosis of colonic microbiota, which, in turn, is a risk factor for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Therefore, we investigated the role that EBV DNA may play in modulating the intestinal microbiota and consequent exacerbation of arthritis in a mouse model. Mice were treated with collagen (arthritis-inducing agent), EBV DNA and collagen, EBV DNA, or water. Fecal samples were collected from arthritic and control mice, and 16S rRNA sequencing was performed to determine the effect of EBV DNA on the composition of colonic microbiota. EBV DNA causes a change in the alpha diversity of the microbiota resulting in an increased Chao1 microbial richness and decreased Shannon diversity index in the RA mouse model. In addition, the abundance of particular genera/genus clusters was significantly altered among the various groups, with the EBV DNA-exacerbated arthritic group having the highest number of altered genera/genus cluster abundances. This group also had the highest number of cells co-expressing IL-17A, FOXP3, and IFNγ in the colons. Antimicrobial-cleared mice transplanted with fecal samples from EBV DNA-exacerbated arthritic mice showed a higher incidence and enhanced severity of RA compared to those transplanted with fecal samples from water or collagen-treated mice.

IMPORTANCE

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA alters the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota in a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) mouse model. These induced changes are associated with enhanced severity of symptoms. This better understanding of the various factors involved in the development of RA will possibly help in creating individualized treatments for RA patients including target mediators triggered by viral DNA. Given that a large swathe of the population harbors EBV, a significant proportion of subjects with arthritis may benefit from possible approaches that target EBV or mediators triggered by this virus.
Cost-effectiveness of ticagrelor plus aspirin versus aspirin in acute ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack: an economic evaluation of the THALES trial
Authors: Tank Amarjeet , Johnston S Claiborne , Jain Ritika , Amarenco Pierre , Mellström Carl , Rikner Klas , Denison Hans , Ladenvall Per , Knutsson Mikael , Himmelmann Anders , Evans Scott R , James Stefan , Molina Carlos A , Wang Yongjun , Ouwens Mario
Published: August 2023

Objective

THALES demonstrated that ticagrelor plus aspirin reduced the risk of stroke or death but increased bleeding versus aspirin during the 30 days following a mild-to-moderate acute non-cardioembolic ischaemic stroke (AIS) or high-risk transient ischaemic attack (TIA). There are no cost-effectiveness analyses supporting this combination in Europe. To address this, a cost-effectiveness analysis was performed.

Methods

Cost-effectiveness was evaluated using a decision tree and Markov model with a short-term and long-term (30-year) horizon. Stroke, mortality, bleeding and EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D) data from THALES were used to estimate short-term outcomes. Model transitions were based on stroke severity (disabling stroke was defined as modified Rankin Scale >2). Healthcare resource utilisation and EQ-5D data beyond 30 days were based on SOCRATES, another trial in AIS/TIA that compared ticagrelor with aspirin. Long-term costs, survival and disutilities were based on published literature. Unit costs were derived from national databases and discounted at 3% annually from a Swedish healthcare perspective.

Results

One-month treatment with ticagrelor plus aspirin resulted in 12 fewer strokes, 4 additional major bleeds and cost savings of €95 000 per 1000 patients versus aspirin from a Swedish healthcare perspective. This translated into increased quality-adjusted life-years (0.04) and reduced societal costs (−€1358) per patient over a lifetime horizon. Key drivers of cost-effectiveness were number of patients experiencing subsequent disabling stroke and degree of disability. Findings were robust over a range of input assumptions.

Conclusion

One month of treatment with ticagrelor plus aspirin is likely to improve outcomes and reduce costs versus aspirin in mild-to-moderate AIS or high-risk TIA.

Trial registration number

NCT03354429.