bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Impact of Intracranial Volume Correction Approaches on the Quantification of Intracranial Structures in MRI: A Systematic Analysis
Authors: Hu Minqi , Lou Yunxia , Zhu Caiting , Chen Jiachen , Liu Shizhou , Liang Yongfeng , Liu Shuwei , Tang Yuchun
Published: September 2023

Background

In neuroscience, accurately quantifying individual brain regions in large cohorts is a challenge. Differences in intracranial structures can suggest functional differences, but they also reflect the effects of other factors. However, there is currently no standardized method for the correction of intracranial structure measurements.

Purpose

To identify the optimal method to counteract the influence of total intracranial volume (TIV) and gender on the measurement of intracranial structures.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population/Subjects

One hundred forty‐one healthy adult volunteers (70 male, mean age 21.8 ± 1.7 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

T1‐weighted 3D gradient‐echo sequence at 3.0 T.

Assessment

A radiologist with 5 years of work experience screened the raw images to exclude poor‐quality images. Freesurfer then performed automated segmentation to obtain measurements of intracranial structures. Male‐only, female‐only, and TIV‐matched sub‐samples were created separately. Comparisons between the original data and these sub‐samples were used to assess the effects of gender and TIV. Comparison the consistency between TIV‐matched sample and corrected data that corrected by four methods: Proportion method, power‐corrected proportion method, covariate regression method, and residual method.

Statistical Tests

Cohen's d for examining group distribution disparities, t‐tests for probing mean differences, correlation coefficients to assess the relationships between intracranial substructure measurements and TIV. Multiple comparison corrections were applied to the results.

Results

The correlation coefficients between TIV and the volumes of intracranial structures ranged from 0.033 to 0.883, with an average of 0.467. Thirty significant volume differences were found among 36 structures in the original sample, while no differences were observed in the TIV‐matched sample. Among the four correction methods, the residual method had highest consistency (similarity 94.4%) with the TIV‐matched group.

Data Conclusion

The variation in intracranial structure sizes between genders was largely attributable to TIV. The residual method offers a more accurate and effective approach for correcting the effects of TIV on intracranial structures.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Microstructure characterization of different types of chlamydospores in Arthrobotrys flagrans
Authors: Wang Bo‐bo , Wang Feng‐hui , Wang Yu‐jue , Jia Yi‐bo , Tian Shu‐yue , Zhang Xi‐chen , Xue Ya‐juan , Li You‐lei , Cai Kui‐zheng
Published: September 2023

The morphological and structural differences of different types of chlamydospore of Arthrobotrys flagrans, a nematophagous fungus, were studied under light microscope and electron microscope to provide a reference for the biological control of parasitic nematodiasis. In this study, A. flagrans isolate F088 dormant chlamydospore and nondormant chlamydospore were selected as the research objects. The structural differences of these spores were observed by optical microscopy through lactol cotton blue, Trypan blue, and 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) staining. FunXite ‐1, 4',6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole, and calcofluor white staining were used to observe the metabolic activity, cell wall, and nucleus differences of the two types of spores under fluorescence microscope. Ultrastructure of the two kinds of spores was observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Since lacto phenol cotton blue, trypan blue staining cannot distinguish dormant spores from dead spores, MTT assay was performed. Fluorescence microscopy observation showed that the cytoplasmic metabolic activity of nondormant spores was stronger than that of dormant spores. The nucleus of dormant spores was bright blue, and their fluorescence was stronger than that of nondormant spores. The cell wall of nondormant spores produced stronger yellow‐green fluorescence than that of dormant spores. Ultrastructural observation showed that there were globular protuberances on the surface of the two types of spores but with no significant difference between them. The inner wall of dormant spore possesses a thick zona pellucida with high electron density which was significantly thicker than that of nondormant spores, and their cytoplasm is also changed. In this study, the microstructure characteristics of dormant and nondormant chlamydospores of A. flagrans fungi were preliminarily clarified, suggesting that the state of cell wall and intracellular materials were changed after spores entered to dormancy.
Nitrate reductase regulation in wheat seedlings by exogenous nitrate: A possible role in tolerance to salt stress
Authors: Horchani Faouzi , Bouallegue Amal , Mabrouk Lotfi , Namsi Ahmed , Abbes Zouhaier
Published: September 2023

Background

Soil salinity is a major abiotic stress causing severe damage to plants. Thus, proper management approaches need to be developed to lessen the detrimental effect of salinity on crop growth and productivity.

Aims

This study was conducted to investigate the putative role of nitrate (NO3−) and nitrate reductase (NR) in mitigating the adverse effects of salt stress on the growth of durum wheat seedlings.

Methods

Nitrogen nutrition has been modified, in the presence of 100 mM NaCl, either by increasing the NO3− availability, the deprivation of NO3− or by the addition of sodium tungstate—an inhibitor of NR—in the culture medium.

Results

Obtained results showed that, in the presence of 2.5 mM NO3−, salt stress significantly decreased all studied growth traits (biomass production, relative growth rate, and water content). This was associated with a noteworthy reduction in total chlorophyll pigment, total carbohydrates, and protein contents. Concomitantly, NR activity was remarkably decreased. However, proline and malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly accumulated. In the absence of NO3− as well as in the presence of tungstate, NR activities were noticeably reduced, and wheat seedling growth was further disturbed in comparison to salt‐stressed seedlings grown under 2.5 mM NO3−. Increasing the NO3− availability to 7.5 mM significantly restricted Cl− uptake, markedly increased root and leaf NR activities, and alleviated salt stress–induced seedling growth inhibition as compared to salt‐stressed seedlings grown under 2.5 mM NO3−. Such effects were associated with an increase in leaf chlorophyll and protein concentrations and in root and leaf carbohydrate concentrations. Nevertheless, MDA concentrations were sharply decreased.

Conclusions

This study provides strong arguments highlighting the potential role of NO3− reduction in mitigating the adverse effects of salt stress on the growth of wheat plants at the early seedling stage. The enhancement of the NR activity through increasing the NO3− availability may, therefore, represent a potential strategy to overcome the salinity‐mediated impairment of wheat seedlings to some extent.
Organic matter type and soil texture shape prokaryotic communities during early‐stage soil structure formation
Authors: Yao Tongyan , Bucka Franziska , Kögel‐Knabner Ingrid , Knief Claudia
Published: September 2023

Background

Organic matter (OM) serves as substrate for heterotrophic microbial growth. Soil structure supports microbial life by providing various niches for colonization. Microorganisms in turn contribute to soil structure formation.

Aims

We aim to understand how OM of different origin and soil texture affect prokaryotic community structure and the implications on early‐stage soil structure formation.

Methods

An artificial soil incubation experiment was conducted with different types of OM, including bacterial necromass and particulate organic matter (POM) of larger or smaller size (sPOM). The mineral composition was modified to obtain a clay loam, loam, and sandy loam texture. The abundance and composition of a natural microbial inoculum were determined after 30 days of incubation by real‐time PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing, respectively.

Results

The different OM types had a stronger effect on the prokaryotic community structure and abundance than texture. The necromass treatment supported the most distinct prokaryotic community with the highest abundance and lowest diversity, as well as the most intense formation of water‐stable microaggregates in comparison to POM and sPOM treatments. Abundant bacterial taxa in all treatments are known to include extracellular polymeric substance producers, indicating that functional redundancy warrants aggregation by gluing agents. Texture‐related effects were most consistent in the POM treatment, where larger prokaryotic populations were observed in the coarser‐textured soils with fewer but larger soil pores and lower soil water content.

Conclusions

Differences in prokaryotic community structure and abundance due to OM source indicate that aggregation is dependent on different ecological strategists, a POM‐degrading population that promotes aggregation and contributes to necromass formation, and a necromass‐degrading consortium in which bacteria play a major role.
Astrocyte Responses Influence Local Effects of Whole‐Brain Magnetic Stimulation in Parkinsonian Rats
Authors: Natale Giuseppina , Colella Micol , De Carluccio Maria , Lelli Daniele , Paffi Alessandra , Carducci Filippo , Apollonio Francesca , Palacios Daniela , Viscomi Maria Teresa , Liberti Micaela , Ghiglieri Veronica
Published: September 2023

Background

Excessive glutamatergic transmission in the striatum is implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD) progression. Astrocytes maintain glutamate homeostasis, protecting from excitotoxicity through the glutamate–aspartate transporter (GLAST), whose alterations have been reported in PD. Noninvasive brain stimulation using intermittent theta‐burst stimulation (iTBS) acts on striatal neurons and glia, inducing neuromodulatory effects and functional recovery in experimental parkinsonism.

Objective

Because PD is associated with altered astrocyte function, we hypothesized that acute iTBS, known to rescue striatal glutamatergic transmission, exerts regional‐ and cell‐specific effects through modulation of glial functions.

Methods

6‐Hydroxydopamine‐lesioned rats were exposed to acute iTBS, and the areas predicted to be more responsive by a biophysical, hyper‐realistic computational model that faithfully reconstructs the experimental setting were analyzed. The effects of iTBS on glial cells and motor behavior were evaluated by molecular and morphological analyses, and CatWalk and Stepping test, respectively.

Results

As predicted by the model, the hippocampus, cerebellum, and striatum displayed a marked c‐FOS activation after iTBS, with the striatum showing specific morphological and molecular changes in the astrocytes, decreased phospho‐CREB levels, and recovery of GLAST. Striatal‐dependent motor performances were also significantly improved.

Conclusion

These data uncover an unknown iTBS effect on astrocytes, advancing the understanding of the complex mechanisms involved in TMS‐mediated functional recovery. Data on numerical dosimetry, obtained with a degree of anatomical details never before considered and validated by the biological findings, provide a framework to predict the electric‐field induced in different specific brain areas and associate it with functional and molecular changes. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Ordering phenomena in ternary transition‐metal dichalcogenides: Critical role of lattice symmetry and vdW interaction
Authors: Zhang Tianxu , Zhu Linggang , Liu Hanyu , Zhou Jian , Sun Zhimei
Published: September 2023

Concentrated solid solution materials with huge compositional design space and normally unexpected property attract extensive interests of researchers. In these emerging materials, local composition fluctuation such as short‐range order (SRO), has been observed and found to have nontrivial effects on material properties, and thus can be utilized as an additional degree of freedom for material optimization. To exploit SRO, its interplay with factors beyond element‐level property, including lattice symmetry and bonding environment, should be clarified. In this work by using layered transition‐metal dichalcogenide Mo(X0.5X′0.5)2 (X/X′ = O, S, Se, or Te) with mixed element in the non‐metal sublattice as the platform, the ordering phenomena are systematically studied using multiscale simulations. As expected, electronegativity difference between X and X′ strongly regulates SRO. Additionally, SRO and long‐range order (LRO) are observed in the 2H and T/T′ phase of MoXX′, respectively, indicating a strong influence of lattice symmetry on SRO. More importantly, as vdW interaction is introduced, the SRO structure in 2H‐MoXX′ bilayer can be re‐configured, while the LRO in T/T′‐MoXX′ remains unchanged. Electronic insights for SRO and the resultant property variation are obtained. This work presents a thorough understanding of SRO in bonding complex systems, benefiting the SRO‐guided material designs.
Real‐time liver motion estimation via deep learning‐based angle‐agnostic X‐ray imaging
Authors: Shao Hua‐Chieh , Li Yunxiang , Wang Jing , Jiang Steve , Zhang You
Published: September 2023

Background

Real‐time liver imaging is challenged by the short imaging time (within hundreds of milliseconds) to meet the temporal constraint posted by rapid patient breathing, resulting in extreme under‐sampling for desired 3D imaging. Deep learning (DL)‐based real‐time imaging/motion estimation techniques are emerging as promising solutions, which can use a single X‐ray projection to estimate 3D moving liver volumes by solved deformable motion. However, such techniques were mostly developed for a specific, fixed X‐ray projection angle, thereby impractical to verify and guide arc‐based radiotherapy with continuous gantry rotation.

Purpose

To enable deformable motion estimation and 3D liver imaging from individual X‐ray projections acquired at arbitrary X‐ray scan angles, and to further improve the accuracy of single X‐ray‐driven motion estimation.

Methods

We developed a DL‐based method, X360, to estimate the deformable motion of the liver boundary using an X‐ray projection acquired at an arbitrary gantry angle (angle‐agnostic). X360 incorporated patient‐specific prior information from planning 4D‐CTs to address the under‐sampling issue, and adopted a deformation‐driven approach to deform a prior liver surface mesh to new meshes that reflect real‐time motion. The liver mesh motion is solved via motion‐related image features encoded in the arbitrary‐angle X‐ray projection, and through a sequential combination of rigid and deformable registration modules. To achieve the angle agnosticism, a geometry‐informed X‐ray feature pooling layer was developed to allow X360 to extract angle‐dependent image features for motion estimation. As a liver boundary motion solver, X360 was also combined with priorly‐developed, DL‐based optical surface imaging and biomechanical modeling techniques for intra‐liver motion estimation and tumor localization.

Results

With geometry‐aware feature pooling, X360 can solve the liver boundary motion from an arbitrary‐angle X‐ray projection. Evaluated on a set of 10 liver patient cases, the mean (± s.d.) 95‐percentile Hausdorff distance between the solved liver boundary and the “ground‐truth” decreased from 10.9 (±4.5) mm (before motion estimation) to 5.5 (±1.9) mm (X360). When X360 was further integrated with surface imaging and biomechanical modeling for liver tumor localization, the mean (± s.d.) center‐of‐mass localization error of the liver tumors decreased from 9.4 (± 5.1) mm to 2.2 (± 1.7) mm.

Conclusion

X360 can achieve fast and robust liver boundary motion estimation from arbitrary‐angle X‐ray projections for real‐time imaging guidance. Serving as a surface motion solver, X360 can be integrated into a combined framework to achieve accurate, real‐time, and marker‐less liver tumor localization.
MAPping affective dimensions of behavior: Methodologic and pragmatic advancement of the Multidimensional Assessment Profiles scales
Authors: Wiggins Jillian Lee , Roy Amy K. , Wakschlag Lauren S.
Published: September 2023

Rigorous validation of the full developmentally sensitive normal:abnormal spectrum, including evaluating the incremental value of age‐specific behaviors, is necessary for nuanced characterization of dimensional features of psychopathology. To maximize the clinical utility of transdiagnostic approaches to risk identification, derivation of psychometrically sound, pragmatic versions with empirically derived cutoffs is also key. This special section has a central focus on rigorous, developmentally‐based measurement of irritability as an exemplar of this theory‐ and pragmatically‐based approach. Elevated irritability is a robust transdiagnostic predictor of the common psychopathologies of childhood. The Multidimensional Assessment Profiles Temper Loss (MAPS‐TL) Scales are the only irritability tool specifically designed to capture the normal:abnormal dimensional spectrum. These have been extensively investigated in preschool age but lack rigorous modeling at older and younger ages. In this special issue, (with three independent—and one longitudinal—set of samples), we test and improve measurement of irritability as a transdiagnostic phenotype of psychopathology risk as it unfolds across development, expanding the MAPS‐TL scale in three important ways: (1) extending irritability dimensional modeling and the developmental specification approach to older ages, (2) advancing science to practice translation by generating pragmatic irritability screening tools across ages, and (3) extending the dimensional, developmental specification approach to other dimensions of behavior, that is, internalizing. Collectively, the special issue operationalizes and advances application of a neurodevelopmental, dimensional and transdiagnostic approach to psychopathology.
Self‐reported barriers in self‐management of women with gestational diabetes: A systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Xu Nuo , Han Xia , Chen Sijing , Zhang Jingjing , Gu Ping
Published: September 2023

Aim

To provide a systematic review of the qualitative literature on self‐reported barriers to self‐management in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Design

Systematic review.

Methods

This systematic review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute meta‐aggregation approach and was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. Qualitative studies on the barriers to self‐management among GDM pregnancy survivors conducted until 17 May 2022, were searched.

Results

A total of 30 studies were included, of which seven were in Chinese and 23 were in English, and 10 findings resulted in three themes: (a) Knowledge and belief, (b) Skills and abilities and (c) Environment and social support. By summarizing the self‐reported barriers to self‐management in patients with GDM and recommends precise interventions for these barriers, thereby saving health resources and helping to increase their willingness and ability to engage in self‐management.
Radially Pedicled In‐Situ Split‐Thickness Skin Grafts, an Alternative to Distal Split‐Thickness Skin Grafts
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhou Xu‐Lin , Shi Cheng‐Ji , Fu Guang‐Xin , Zhao Dan
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study aimed to introduce a novel radially pedicled in‐situ split‐thickness skin graft (STSG). The morbidity, esthetic, and functional outcomes of the radially pedicled in‐situ STSG were in comparison with those of the distal STSG.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Setting

A single‐institution review.

Methods

Seventy patients with oral cancer who underwent radical surgical resection and simultaneous radial forearm free flap (RFFF) reconstruction from July 2021 to March 2022 were included. De‐epithelialized RFFFs and traditional RFFFs were used to repair oral defects of 35 patients in Group A and Group B, respectively, while radially pedicled in‐situ STSGs and distal STSGs taken from abdomens were used to repair donor site defects in the above groups, respectively. Patient demographics, wound healing complications, and esthetic and functional outcomes of the forearms were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

No significant difference between Group A and Group B was observed in terms of donor site and recipient site complications. The esthetic outcome was superior in Group A compared to Group B (P = .011). The extension range, sensation, and pinch strength of operated forearms were significantly reduced in both groups after surgery (P < .05), however, intergroup differences were not observed.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results suggest that radially pedicled in‐situ STSG is an applicable technique for direct closure and better esthetic outcomes in the forearm donor site.
Algebraic properties of projected problems in LSQR
Authors: Havelková Eva , Hnětynková Iveta
Published: September 2023

LSQR represents a standard Krylov projection method for the solution of systems of linear algebraic equations, linear approximation problems or regularization of discrete inverse problem. Its convergence properties (residual norms, error norms, influence of finite precision arithmetic etc.) have been widely studied. It has been observed that the components of the solution of the projected bidiagonal problem typically increase and their sign alternates. This behavior is the core of approximation properties of LSQR and is observed also for hybrid LSQR with inner Tikhonov regularization. Here we provide rigorous analysis of sign changes and monotonicity of individual components of projected solutions and projected residuals in LSQR. The results hold also for Hybrid LSQR with a fixed inner regularization parameter. The derivations do not rely on maintaining orthogonality in Krylov bases determined by the bidiagonalization process. Numerical illustration is included.
An arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian formulation for the Reynolds equation considering the JFO boundary condition
Authors: Tong Yan , Müller Michael , Ostermeyer Georg‐Peter
Published: September 2023

In the realm of lubrication theory, the hydrodynamics of the fluid lubricant are commonly elucidated through the Reynolds equation. Its establishment stems from using the Eulerian description method, restricting the fluid domain to a fixed spatial configuration. However, certain scenarios necessitate coupling the Reynolds equation with solid deformation, wherein the fluid boundary undergoes alterations concurrent with the displacement or deformation of the solid. In such cases, the employment of a movable fluid domain becomes imperative. To address this requirement, this contribution introduces the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian method, which effectively transforms the reference system of the Reynolds equation into a fluid domain amenable to arbitrary movement. Subsequently, the weak formulation associated with the movable fluid domain is derived and synergistically combined with a preexisting cavitation formulation. This integration facilitates an efficient solution of the Reynolds equation utilizing the finite element method while duly accounting for the mass‐conserving cavitation effects. Ultimately, a transient hydrodynamic lubrication example is presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the newly developed formulations.
Cellulose nanofiber‐incorporated high‐solid siloxane acrylic latex by mini‐emulsion polymerization for hydrophobic coating and wood adhesive
Authors: Neelambaram Punugupati , Thounchiyath Thushara , Narayan Ramanuj , Chakrabarty Arindam
Published: September 2023

In order to contribute to the thriving research on bio nanocomposites for sustainable future, here we developed a cellulose nanofiber (CNF)‐based siloxane acrylic nanocomposite aiming to the application as hydrophobic coating and wood adhesive. CNF was incorporated in a copolymer matrix of poly (methyl methacrylate‐co‐butyl acrylate) [P(MMA‐co‐BA)] cross‐linked with methacrylate‐terminated siloxane (MTS). The copolymer was prepared by mini‐emulsion polymerization at a high solid content of about 57 wt%, where CNF was incorporated to the latex both by in‐situ polymerization and ex‐situ mixing process. The impact of the process of CNF incorporation and its content in the copolymer matrix were evaluated by measuring the thermal, mechanical, water repelling and adhesion properties. All the nanocomposites showed improved mechanical properties (tensile strength: upto 3.9 MPa) and wood adhesion strength (upto 1178 N) compared to the pristine copolymer. In addition, they showed significantly high water‐repelling properties on spray‐coated cotton (water contact angle: 110°–124°). Such siloxane acrylic/CNF nanocomposite has the potential as a sustainable material in the application area of hydrophobic coatings and adhesives.
Mechanical behavior of three‐harness twill woven composite plates under tension loading
Authors: Lu Konghan , Cui Haitao , Zhou Yu , Chang Yipeng , Wang Nan , Zhang Hongjian
Published: September 2023

Three‐harness twill woven composite (THT‐WC) is an advanced carbon fiber reinforced composite that compromises the mechanical behaviors in both longitudinal and latitudinal directions. To explore the further practical application, the structural characteristics and static mechanical behavior of the material were investigated in this article. X‐ray computerized tomography was adopted to obtain the mesostructure details and to capture the key characteristics. With the help of mesoscale information, the 2D and 3D geometric models were established in the form of representative volume elements (RVEs). Combined with voxel mesh generation technology, a finite element model was proposed based on a 3D geometric model where macroscopic mechanical properties of materials along different yarn directions were gained. To verify the simulated geometry and predicted mechanical properties, mesoscale geometric comparison and specimen tensile tests were performed. The results show that the geometric model established in this article can reasonably reflect the periodicity fluctuation of binder warp yarns and the randomness fluctuation of weft yarns. Compared with the experimental results, the relative error of stiffness in the weft direction of the RVE is 4.25%, and that in the warp direction is 5.33%.

Highlights

The mechanical properties of THT‐WC were investigated experimentally.

Meso‐scale reconstruction of THT‐WC was presented.

A model to predict the mechanical properties of THT‐WC is established.
Music performance anxiety in children 9−12 years old in a music program
Authors: Tardif Catherine , Boucher Hélène , Lane Julie , Barbeau Audrey‐Kristel
Published: September 2023

Music‐intensive school program are one way of enhancing arts‐education in public schools. Elementary school students enrolled in a music‐intensive program are exposed to several stress factors that could contribute to development of music performance anxiety (MPA). This study aims to describe MPA manifestations as reported by 164 students from 9 to 12 years of age taking part in a music‐intensive school program, and to identify what may contribute to its development. Data were collected using a sociodemographic questionnaire, and the French version of the Music Performance Anxiety Inventory for Adolescents. Although it was expected that being involved in an intensive music program would bring students to report higher levels of MPA, results showed moderate levels of MPA. In addition, girls reported significatively more manifestations of MPA than boys. The MPA level also vary according to the origin of the registration in the program (child's request or parents' suggestion), and the cycle. Indeed, cycle 2 students reported significantly less MPA than cycle 3 students when the request to participate in the music‐intensive program came from the child. Findings provide useful key points that should be considered for both practitioners and researchers.
Simultaneous CAS9 editing of cpSRP43, LHCA6, and LHCA7 in Picochlorum celeri lowers chlorophyll levels and improves biomass productivity
Authors: Krishnan Anagha , Cano Melissa , Karns Devin A. , Burch Tyson A. , Likhogrud Maria , Aqui Moena , Bailey Shaun , Verruto John , Lambert William , Kuzminov Fedor , Naghipor Mahva , Wang Yingjun , Ebmeier Christopher C. , Weissman Joseph C. , Posewitz Matthew C.
Published: September 2023

High cellular pigment levels in dense microalgal cultures contribute to excess light absorption. To improve photosynthetic yields in the marine microalga Picochlorum celeri, CAS9 gene editing was used to target the molecular chaperone cpSRP43. Depigmented strains (>50% lower chlorophyll) were generated, with proteomics showing attenuated levels of most light harvesting complex (LHC) proteins. Gene editing generated two types of cpSRP43 transformants with distinct lower pigment phenotypes: (i) a transformant (Δsrp43) with both cpSRP43 diploid alleles modified to encode non‐functional polypeptides and (ii) a transformant (STR30309) with a 3 nt in‐frame insertion in one allele at the CAS9 cut site (non‐functional second allele), leading to expression of a modified cpSRP43. STR30309 has more chlorophyll than Δsrp43 but substantially less than wild type. To further decrease light absorption by photosystem I in STR30309, CAS9 editing was used to stack in disruptions of both LHCA6 and LHCA7 to generate STR30843, which has higher (5–24%) productivities relative to wild type in solar‐simulating bioreactors. Maximal productivities required frequent partial harvests throughout the day. For STR30843, exemplary diel bioreactor yields of ~50 g m−2 day−1 were attained. Our results demonstrate diel productivity gains in P. celeri by lowering pigment levels.
Microbiological patterns of bacterial infections in tracheostomized children: Reducing uncertainty in continuous care
Authors: García‐Boyano Miguel , Alcalá Francisco José Climent , Alonso Aroa Rodríguez , de Villalta Marta García Fernández , Alonso Oihane Zubiaur , Retolaza Ignacio Rabanal , Melero Inmaculada Quiles , Calvo Cristina , García Luis Escosa
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives

Respiratory infections are the most frequent cause of hospitalization in tracheostomized children. However, there is a lack of publications to guide their management. The primary objective was to describe the microbiological isolates and their antibiotic susceptibilities of bacterial respiratory infections in a population of tracheostomized children.

Methods

Retrospective follow‐up study of children with tracheostomy seen at a tertiary hospital. Respiratory infection episodes in patients under 18 years of age who had a tracheostomy and bacterial isolation with a count ≥104 Colony Forming Units/mL in tracheal aspirate were included.

Results

The study analyzed 328 respiratory infection episodes: 164 tracheobronchitis (50%), 112 nonspecific respiratory episodes (34.1%), and 52 pneumonias (15.9%). The most commonly isolated microorganisms were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia marcescens, and Staphylococcus aureus. The antibiotics that exhibited the highest effectiveness were meropenem (92%), imipenem (87%), and levofloxacin (86%). When hospitalization exceeded 7 days, there was a higher chance of isolating Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively), as well as an increased rate of multidrug resistance (27% vs. 7%, p = 0.035). In 75.3% of cases, the microorganism had been previously isolated in a sample taken 7−30 days before the current one, with a higher frequency observed in the case of P. aeruginosa (95.2%) compared to other microorganisms (65.3%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Meropenem, imipenem, and levofloxacin provided the most effective coverage for these infections. The risk of multidrug resistance increased with longer hospital stays, especially for E. coli and K. pneumoniae. Recent isolation of P. aeruginosa may justify empirical coverage.
Amber‐codon suppression for spatial localization and in vivo photoaffinity capture of the interactome of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa rare lipoprotein A lytic transglycosylase
Authors: Avila‐Cobian Luis F. , Hoshino Hidekazu , Horsman Mark E. , Nguyen Van T. , Qian Yuanyuan , Feltzer Rhona , Kim Choon , Hu Daniel D. , Champion Matthew M. , Fisher Jed F. , Mobashery Shahriar
Published: September 2023

The 11 lytic transglycosylases of Pseudomonas aeruginosa have overlapping activities in the turnover of the cell‐wall peptidoglycan. Rare lipoprotein A (RlpA) is distinct among the 11 by its use of only peptidoglycan lacking peptide stems. The spatial localization of RlpA and its interactome within P. aeruginosa are unknown. We employed suppression of introduced amber codons at sites in the rlpA gene for the introduction of the unnatural‐amino‐acids Νζ‐[(2‐azidoethoxy)carbonyl]‐l‐lysine (compound 1) and Nζ‐[[[3‐(3‐methyl‐3H‐diazirin‐3‐yl)propyl]amino]carbonyl]‐l‐lysine (compound 2). In live P. aeruginosa, full‐length RlpA incorporating compound 1 into its sequence was fluorescently tagged using strained‐promoted alkyne‐azide cycloaddition and examined by fluorescence microscopy. RlpA is present at low levels along the sidewall length of the bacterium, and at higher levels at the nascent septa of replicating bacteria. In intact P. aeruginosa, UV photolysis of full‐length RlpA having compound 2 within its sequence generated a transient reactive carbene, which engaged in photoaffinity capture of neighboring proteins. Thirteen proteins were identified. Three of these proteins—PBP1a, PBP5, and MreB—are members of the bacterial divisome. The use of the complementary methodologies of non‐canonical amino‐acid incorporation, photoaffinity proximity analysis, and fluorescent microscopy confirm a dominant septal location for the RlpA enzyme of P. aeruginosa, as a divisome‐associated activity. This accomplishment adds to the emerging recognition of the value of these methodologies for identification of the intracellular localization of bacterial proteins.
Rate limiting step of the allosteric activation of the bacterial adhesin FimH investigated by molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Interlandi Gianluca
Published: September 2023

The bacterial adhesin FimH is a model for the study of protein allostery because its structure has been resolved in multiple configurations, including the active and the inactive state. FimH consists of a pilin domain (PD) that anchors it to the rest of the fimbria and an allosterically regulated lectin domain (LD) that binds mannose on the surface of infected cells. Under normal conditions, the two domains are docked to each other and LD binds mannose weakly. However, in the presence of tensile force generated by shear the domains separate and conformational changes propagate across LD resulting in a stronger bond to mannose. Recently, the crystallographic structure of a variant of FimH has been resolved, called , where PD contains 10 mutations near the inter‐domain interface. Although the X‐ray structures of FimH and are almost identical, experimental evidence shows that is activated even in the absence of shear. Here, molecular dynamics simulations combined with the Jarzynski equality were used to investigate the discrepancy between the crystallographic structures and the functional assays. The results indicate that the free energy barrier of the unbinding process between LD and PD is drastically reduced in . Rupture of inter‐domain hydrogen bonds involving R166 constitutes a rate limiting step of the domain separation process and occurs more readily in than FimH. In conclusion, the mutations in shift the equilibrium toward an equal occupancy of bound and unbound states for LD and PD by reducing a rate limiting step.
Development of control charts to monitor image data using the contourlet transform method
Authors: khodadadi Zahra , Owlia Mohammad Saleh , Amiri Amirhossein , Fallahnezhad Mohammad Saber
Published: September 2023

In recent years, researchers and practitioners have been exploring new methods for quality control, including image processing. The effective use of high‐volume image data can significantly improve the monitoring of production and service systems in terms of speed, accuracy, and cost. Adopting an image‐based approach is better than relying on operator‐based solutions, and it offers new perspectives for process monitoring. Image processing can involve extracting features to identify, classify, detect, and cluster. Although there are several transformations to extract features from images, the Fourier method cannot consider the concurrency of frequency and time data, and the wavelet method only considers two specific directions. In multidimensional transforms, the optimal method can provide more information using fewer coefficients. The contourlet transform has advantages such as multiresolution, localization, critical sampling, directionality, and anisotropy. This research investigates the advantages of applying the contourlet transform to images and using data in a generalized likelihood ratio control chart. The results show that this method is more accurate than others because it can examine various directions in images. The proposed methodology algorithm is also presented in this study.
Exophiala dermatitidis coinfection with nontuberculous mycobacteria: A case report and literature review
Authors: Miyoshi Seigo , Tanabe Miyuki , Semba Mayuko , Sato Chika , Aoyama Sanae , Watanabe Akira , Ito Ryoji , Hamada Kumi , Watanabe Akira , Abe Masahiro
Published: September 2023

Six years ago, a 60‐year‐old man presented to our hospital with a cough and sputum. Upon suspicion of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infection, he was followed up at our hospital. Because the abnormal shadows in the bilateral lung fields deteriorated slightly over 6 years, bronchoscopy was performed. Exophiala dermatitidis and Mycobacterium intracellulare were detected in the bronchial lavage fluid. The patient underwent follow‐up examinations without drug administration. Currently, the patient's condition remains stable. E. dermatitidis is regulatory found in the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis, but only rarely is it found in respiratory samples from patients without cystic fibrosis. However, NTM complications have been reported more frequently in recent years. Due to the increasing number of NTM patients, E. dermatitidis pulmonary infections may also increase. Additional research is required to develop strategies for treating this infection.
Guiding downstream migrating Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brown trout (Salmo trutta) of different life stages in a large river using bubbles
Authors: Leander Johan , Hellström Gustav , Nordin Jonathan , Jonsson Micael , Klaminder Jonatan
Published: September 2023

Salmonid repeat spawners are precious individuals for wild populations due to their high fecundity and previous spawning experience, making them important in environmental policy. However, repeat spawners rarely exist above hydropower dams in regulated rivers as the mortality of post‐spawners (kelts) when passing through turbines during downstream migration is very high. To mitigate this problem, there are different technical solutions that potentially guide fish toward available fishways. Bubble barriers represent one alternative to costly physical guiding structures, but the efficiency of bubbles for guiding downstream migrating kelts has not been tested. In this study, we evaluate a 100 m long bubble barrier in guiding salmonids—both smolts and kelts—away from the main current and toward an alternative fishway in Ume River, a large regulated river in northern Sweden. We used both acoustic telemetry and sonar to measure the guiding effect of the bubble barrier for downstream migrating fish. We found that more than twice as many salmonids chose the alternative fishway when the bubble barrier was turned on. This was true both for smolts and kelts, suggesting that bubble barriers can be used to guide salmonids of different life stages in rivers with flow rates over 500 m3 s−1. Indeed, our study indicates that bubble barriers are low‐cost structures that could be rapidly applied in many regulated rivers to support salmonid migration.
Using eco‐efficiency and eco‐wellbeing performance as indicators for urban sustainable development: A two‐stage network analysis
Authors: Zhang Yu , Cai Xi , Jiao Liudan , Mao Yanying , Huo Xiaosen , Wu Ya
Published: September 2023

Sustainable development is one of the most significant issues of concern around the world today. Sustainable development goals cover natural resources, the environment, and human well‐being. It follows that eco‐efficiency (EE) and eco‐well‐being performance (EWP) are valid tools for measuring the level of different stages of sustainable development. This study uses a two‐stage super‐SBM model to gauge the EE and EWP of 281 cities in China from 2011 to 2019. The results show the following: (1) The national EE average is low, with M‐shaped “rising‐declining‐rising‐declining” fluctuation. The national EWP average is low, but there is a clear upward trend. (2) From a regional perspective, the best EE is in the eastern region, followed by the central and western regions, and the worst is in the northeastern region. The best EWP is in the western region, followed by the eastern and northeastern regions, and the worst is in the central region. (3) Among the 281 sample cities, approximately 12.8% are in the high EE‐high EWP development mode, 25.6% are in the high EE‐low EWP development mode, 18.2% are in the low EE‐high EWP development mode, and 43.4% are in the low EE‐low EWP development mode. Collectively, the three cities with the strongest sustainability are Shenzhen, Beijing, and Haikou, and the three weakest are Baise, Jinchang, and Baiyin. In addition, cities with larger populations tend to exhibit greater sustainability. These results provide the necessary reference for Chinese cities and cities worldwide in similar situations to formulate policies to improve sustainability.
Digital transformation for the sustainable development of firms: The role of green capability and green culture
Authors: Li Lei , Lin Jiabao
Published: September 2023

Leveraging digital transformation to improve environmental performance is critical for sustainability. However, the underlying mechanism in the relationship between digital transformation and environmental performance remains unclear. Through the lens of IT‐enabled organizational capabilities, this study develops a moderated mediation model to examine the mechanisms and boundary conditions through which digital transformation affects environmental performance. Using a sample of Chinese agriculture firms, our findings reveal that digital transformation positively environmental performance through green capability, and this indirect effect is stronger when green culture is higher. Moreover, green culture moderates the relationship between digital transformation and green capability. Our theoretical explanation and empirical evidence contribute significantly to the literature by providing insights on how to leverage digital transformation initiatives to improve environmental performance.
Serratia Marcescens Causing Recurrent Superficial Skin Infections in an Immunosuppressed Patient
Authors: Drummond Sarah E. , Maliampurakal Akash , Jamdar Saranaz , Melly Lucy , Holmes Susan
Published: September 2023

Serratia marcescens is a gram-negative bacterium found commonly in water and soil. Initially thought to be non-pathogenic, it is now recognised as an important cause of nosocomial and opportunistic infections. Skin infections are rare, but cases of S. marcescens causing ulcers, abscesses and necrotizing fasciitis have been reported. We report an unusual cutaneous presentation of S. marcescens in an immunosuppressed patient. A 77-year-old man under review for non-melanoma skin cancer in the context of a previous cardiac transplant, presented with an asymptomatic scalp eruption. Immunosuppressive medications included ciclosporin 90 mg twice daily (2.5 mg/kg/day) and mycophenolate mofetil 1 g twice daily. Physical examination revealed well-defined annular and polycyclic patches with brownish crusting across his scalp. Bacterial culture demonstrated a heavy growth of Staphylococcus aureus sensitive to flucloxacillin. The patient was treated with 7 days of flucloxacillin 500 mg four times daily. Despite this, the eruption extended. Skin biopsy demonstrated epidermal spongiosis, florid dermal inflammatory cell infiltrate and abundant bacteria and neutrophils in the parakeratotic crust. Fungal stains were negative as was direct immunofluorescence. Repeat culture demonstrated heavy growth of S. marcescens sensitive to ciprofloxacin. The patient was treated with 10 days of oral ciprofloxacin 500 mg twice daily along with 1% hydrogen peroxide cream topically with significant clinical improvement. Microbiological review indicated that a gram-negative organism was present in the initial scalp swab. In addition, S. marcescens had been detected previously on a skin swab from a recent transient eruption on the torso. Further, a heavy growth of a coliform bacillus was demonstrated in a similar eruption on the chest in 2013. It was concluded that the patient was likely colonised with S. marcescens which appeared to have caused recurrent superficial skin infections over several years. We report this case to highlight an unusual clinical presentation of cutaneous S. marcescens infection. This should be considered in the differential diagnosis of skin eruptions in immunocompromised patients. Clinical information detailing a patient’s immunosuppressed state must be supplied on microbiology requests to allow accurate interpretation of results, and consideration of organisms which may otherwise be overlooked or considered contaminants.
Novel Class of Fluorinated Pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines as CDK5 and Bcl2 Inhibitors: Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, Molecular Docking and ADME Studies
Authors: Said Mohamed Mona , Atwa Saad Zinab , Hanafy Metwally Nadia
Published: September 2023

New pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines were designed and synthesized based on the structural analysis of known CDK5 inhibitors. Biological evaluations showed that the IC50 of the most potent compounds 3 c and 5 b targeting normal WI38 (human lung cells) were 74.13±4.0 and 56.19±3.5 μM, respectively and showed safety profile in normal cells compared to doxorubicin with IC50 of 6.27±0.5 μM. Compounds 3 c and 5 b, demonstrated potent CDK5 inhibitory activity with IC50=0.36±0.02 and 0.226±0.01 μM, respectively compared to roscovitine of IC50 value 0.149±0.007 μM. Compound 5 b also cause a significantly increased the percentage of cells at phases in S by 1.2 fold, compared to untreated cells. It was found that downregulation of Bcl2 expression by 3 and 6 folds for 3 c and 5 b, respectively than that the control in breast cell. In addition, examination of the induction of apoptosis by 5 b demonstrated that compound 5 b significantly increased the early and late apoptotic ratio by about 65 and 66 folds, respectively, proving that compound 5 b significantly induces apoptotic by 34.5 %. Moreover, the pharmacokinetic properties of 3 c and 5 b were predicted using ADME calculations, which revealed that they inhibit some CYP450 enzymes in the liver.