bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different regulation of auxin homeostasis would be a possible mechanism conferring quinclorac resistance in Echinochloa crusgalli var. zelayensis
Authors: Zhao Zerui , Liu Xudong , Pan Xukun , Napier Richard , Dong Liyao , Li Jun
Published: August 2022

Differences in ethylene biosynthesis and cyanide detoxification have been reported to be mechanisms of quinclorac resistance in Echinochloa crusgalli var. zelayensis. Resistant phenotypes could be a consequence of the altered endogenous indole acetic acid (IAA) homeostasis induced by the herbicide. In this study, we determined the IAA content and expression levels of auxin homeostasis‐related genes in susceptible and resistant biotypes of E. crusgalli var. zelayensis after quinclorac treatment. The results showed that the IAA content of JNNX‐S (susceptible biotype) was significantly higher than that of SSXB‐R (resistant biotype) after treatment with 50 μM quinclorac. To better understand this rise in IAA, the expression profiles of seven genes (one for auxin synthesis, five for IAA conjugation and one for IAA oxidation) and the biochemical activities of two oxidases involved in IAA homeostasis were measured. The expression of EcYUCCA10 was significantly higher in JNNX‐S than in SSXB‐R. The expression levels of the EcGH3s were significantly lower in JNNX‐S than in SSXB‐R. These expression profiles were consistent with the elevation of IAA levels in the susceptible biotype. In contrast, EcUGT and EcDAO were induced in each biotype, but a smaller increase was observed in SSXB‐R than in JNNX‐S. The enzymatic activities of IAA oxidases and peroxidases were higher in SSXB‐R than in JNNX‐S 24 h after treatment. It was inferred that altered expression of specific genes involved in IAA synthesis, conjugation and oxidation resulted in less IAA being induced in the resistant biotype, resulting in a lower ethylene burst and the associated quinclorac resistance. These results suggest novel layers of complexity in the mechanism of quinclorac resistance.
Comparative transcriptomic adaptations of Staphylococcus aureus to the wound environment in non‐diabetic and diabetic mice
Authors: Dolivo David , Lanier Steven , Leung Kai , Mustoe Thomas , Hong Seok Jong , Galiano Robert
Published: August 2022

Infection is a major source of complications in delayed diabetic wound healing. Increased understanding of differential bacterial responses to diabetic wounds will enable us to better understand chronic wound pathogenesis. Here we create delayed‐healing wounds infected with Staphylococcus aureus in non‐diabetic and diabetic mice and used RNA‐seq to compare bacterial gene expression profiles 3 or 7 days after infection. Analysis at day 3 demonstrated substantial transcriptomic differences between bacteria colonising non‐diabetic and diabetic wound beds. Most of these transcriptional differences resolved by day 7, suggesting normalisation of many bacterial phenotypes later in the diabetic wound healing process. Lingering differentially expressed genes at day 7 were enriched for genes related to carbohydrate metabolism, which includes genes of the lac operon, and capsular polysaccharide synthesis, which includes the cap8 locus. These data encourage further research into host–pathogen interactions in wound healing and how they influence differential outcomes in the diabetic wound environment.
PALAMISM AND DISPOSITIONALISM: COMMENT ON RASLAU'S INTEGRATION OF ORTHODOX THEOLOGY WITH CONTEMPORARY METAPHYSICS OF SCIENCE
Authors: Dumsday Travis
Published: August 2022

In a recent volume ofZygon: Journal of Religion and Science, Flavius Raslau proposes a new and intriguing integration of Palamite theology with key currents of thought in analytic philosophy of science. The aim of this comment is to provide a concise summary and assessment of Raslau's proposal, along the way making suggestions as to how it might be profitably amended.
“Gambiarras legais” para o reconhecimento da identidade de gênero? As normativas sobre nome social de pessoas trans nas Universidade Públicas Federais
Authors: Lages Vitor Nunes , Duarte Evandro Piza , Araruna Maria Léo
Published: August 2022

As 63 universidades públicas federais brasileiras (UFs), na ausência de leis que reconheçam integralmente a identidade de gênero de travestis, transexuais e transgêneros, criaram, ao longo de onze anos, normativas que regulamentam o uso do nome social nessas UFs. Este artigo analisa, quantitativa e qualitativamente, o conteúdo das normativas em relação às justificativas, conceitos, participação social, abrangência, procedimentos e mecanismos institucionais de garantia, a partir de estudos queer e de dados da realidade social trans no Brasil. Pretende discutir se as normativas são “gambiarras legais”, como defende Berenice BENTO (2012; 2014) (uma solução precária para a garantia do direito ao respeito à identidade de gênero), marcadas pela cisheteronormatividade e, agora, sem relevância no atual cenário político-normativo pós-decisão da Ação Direta de Inconstitucionalidade (ADI) 4.275/DF do STF de 2018, pois esta determinou a retificação do nome e sexo de pessoas trans maiores de idade diretamente em cartório apenas por autodeclaração. A conclusão apresenta os paradoxos dessa política pública de reconhecimento, sugerindo que as normativas ainda são importantes para garantir um mínimo de dignidade às pessoas trans em universidades, porém estabelecem direitos precários, com inúmeras contradições e omissões que limitam seu alcance no reconhecimento do direito ao respeito da identidade de gênero.
Mulheres da Pesca:Invisibilidade e Discriminação Indireta no Direito ao Seguro Desemprego
Authors: Huguenin Fernanda Pacheco , Martínez Silvia Alicia
Published: August 2022

Na legislação brasileira hodierna, a pesca é definida restritamente como captura dos recursos naturais e é considerado pescador quem a executa. As mulheres presentes na cadeia produtiva artesanal desenvolvem, principalmente, o beneficiamento do pescado e, conforme estabelecem os dispositivos legais, são consideradas trabalhadoras de apoio às atividades pesqueiras, não sendo reconhecidas pelo Estado como categoria assegurada pelo direito previdenciário do seguro desemprego, o denominado Defeso. Ao regulamentar as diferentes etapas da pesca artesanal, o ordenamento jurídico pátrio discrimina indiretamente as mulheres, pois a divisão sexual do trabalho e as relações sociais de sexo são naturalizadas como normas de gênero e reproduzidas na proposição das políticas públicas. O presente artigo busca evidenciar, a partir da revisão bibliográfica, da reflexão sobre dados qualitativos obtidos em pesquisa socioambiental realizada em municípios fluminenses e da análise da legislação vigente, o fato de que as mulheres da pesca têm sido historicamente invisibilizadas, pois o trabalho por elas desenvolvido é visto, inclusive quando classificado pela administração estatal, como secundário e complementar. Assim, o mandamento constitucional antidiscriminatório é desrespeitado pela falta de reconhecimento profissional e pela negação de direitos sociais fundamentais, o que coloca as trabalhadoras em situação de imprevisibilidade de renda e de insegurança alimentar. A crítica à legislação pesqueira reforça a complexidade de processos políticos, sobretudo os efeitos adversos relativos às demandas pela igualdade de gênero.
Sensitivity Analysis and Parametric Uncertainty Quantification of a Modular Multilevel Converter
Authors: Rashidi Niloofar , Burgos Rolando , Roy Chris , Boroyevich Dushan
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the numerical approaches for sensitivity analysis (SA) and its application in the modeling effort of a modular multilevel converter (MMC). A review of the state-of-the-art techniques in the sensitivity analysis is provided, with a special focus on the numerical approaches, followed by the sensitivity analysis of an MMC. To further reduce the computational cost per model evaluation in parametric uncertainty quantification (P-UQ) of the MMC, this paper also proposes a simplified model with a minimum number of power modules for P-UQ analysis without introducing any further uncertainties in the modeling and simulation.
Constrained Multibody Kinematics and Dynamics in Absolute Coordinates: A Discussion of Three Approaches to Representing Rigid Body Rotation
Authors: Kissel Alexandra , Taves Jay , Negrut Dan
Published: August 2022

We compare three ways to pose the set of index 3 differential algebraic equations (DAEs) associated with the constrained multibody dynamics problem formulated in absolute coordinates. The first approach, named rA, works directly with the orientation matrix and therefore eschews the need for generalized coordinates used to produce the orientation matrix A. The approach is informed by the fact that rotation matrices belong to the SO(3) Lie matrix group. The second approach, referred to herein as rp, employs Euler parameters; the third, referred to as rε, uses Euler angles. In all cases, the index 3 DAE problem is solved via a first-order implicit numerical integrator. We note a roughly twofold speedup of rA over rε and a 1.2–1.3 times speedup of rε over rp. The tests were carried out in conjunction with four 3D mechanisms. The improvements in simulation speed of the rA approach are traced back to a simpler form of the equations of motion and more concise Jacobians that enter the numerical solution. The contributions made herein are twofold. First, we provide first-order variations of all the quantities that enter the rA formulation when used in the context of implicit integration; i.e., sensitivity of the kinematic constraints for all lower pair joints, as well as the sensitivity of the constraint reaction forces. Second, to the best of our knowledge, there is no other contribution that compares head to head the solution efficiency of rA, rp, and rε in the context of the multibody dynamics problem posed in absolute coordinates.
Effect of rapid thermal annealing on the mechanical stress and physico-chemical properties in plasma enhanced atomic layer deposited silicon nitride thin films
Authors: Peter Antony Premkumar , Sepulveda Marquez Alfonso , Meersschaut Johan , Dara Praveen , Blanquart Timothee , Tomomi Takayama , Taishi Ebisudani , Elichiro Shiba , Kimura Yosuke , Gompel Sander van , Morin Pierre
Published: August 2022

The present study reports the impact of process conditions and post annealing treatment on the stress and physico-chemical properties in different types of plasma enhanced atomic layer deposited (PEALD) SiNx films. More specifically, the SiNx films deposited at 500 °C were annealed subsequently at 1000 °C in N2 ambient for different times ranging between 30 and 6750 s and were subjected to thickness, mass, refractive index, chemical bonds and structure, H content, N/Si stoichiometry, morphology, roughness, and uniformity monitoring. Depending on the deposition process conditions, we confirm the possibility to form, at 500 °C with PEALD, some very compressive SiN films with reduced hydrogen content by controlling the plasma conditions along the deposition process. More interestingly, these compressive films with low hydrogen concentration exhibit high thermo-mechanical stability compared to hydrogenated PEALD and plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition silicon nitride from this study or reported in the literature, films which typically tend to become tensile with a similar annealing sequence. These results confirm the importance of the plasma power to engineer the as-deposited silicon nitride stress but also highlight the role of hydrogen in the thermal instability of these layers, a low H concentration being needed for a better mechanical stability.
Cross-species identification of cancer resistance–associated genes that may mediate human cancer risk
Authors: Nair Nishanth Ulhas , Cheng Kuoyuan , Naddaf Lamis , Sharon Elad , Pal Lipika R. , Rajagopal Padma S. , Unterman Irene , Aldape Kenneth , Hannenhalli Sridhar , Day Chi-Ping , Tabach Yuval , Ruppin Eytan
Published: August 2022

Cancer is a predominant disease across animals. We applied a comparative genomics approach to systematically characterize genes whose conservation levels correlate positively (PC) or negatively (NC) with cancer resistance estimates across 193 vertebrates. Pathway analysis reveals that NC genes are enriched for metabolic functions and PC genes in cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, and immune response, pointing to their corresponding roles in mediating cancer risk. We find that PC genes are less tolerant to loss-of-function (LoF) mutations, are enriched in cancer driver genes, and are associated with germline mutations that increase human cancer risk. Their relevance to cancer risk is further supported via the analysis of mouse functional genomics and cancer mortality of zoo mammals’ data. In sum, our study describes a cross-species genomic analysis pointing to candidate genes that may mediate human cancer risk.
Upward propagation of gigantic jets revealed by 3D radio and optical mapping
Authors: Boggs Levi D. , Mach Doug , Bruning Eric , Liu Ningyu , van der Velde Oscar A. , Montanyá Joan , Cummer Steve , Palivec Kevin , Chmielewski Vanna , MacGorman Don , Peterson Michael
Published: August 2022

Occasionally, lightning will exit the top of a thunderstorm and connect to the lower edge of space, forming a gigantic jet. Here, we report on observations of a negative gigantic jet that transferred an extraordinary amount of charge between the troposphere and ionosphere (∼300 C). It occurred in unusual circumstances, emerging from an area of weak convection. As the discharge ascended from the cloud top, tens of very high frequency (VHF) radio sources were detected from 22 to 45 km altitude, while simultaneous optical emissions (777.4 nm OI emitted from lightning leaders) remained near cloud top (15 to 20 km altitude). This implies that the high-altitude VHF sources were produced by streamers and the streamer discharge activity can extend all the way from near cloud top to the ionosphere. The simultaneous three-dimensional radio and optical data indicate that VHF lightning networks detect emissions from streamer corona rather than the leader channel, which has broad implications to lightning physics beyond that of gigantic jets.
KCTD7 mutations impair the trafficking of lysosomal enzymes through CLN5 accumulation to cause neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses
Authors: Wang Yalan , Cao Xiaotong , Liu Pei , Zeng Weijia , Peng Rui , Shi Qing , Feng Kai , Zhang Pingzhao , Sun Huiru , Wang Chenji , Wang Hongyan
Published: August 2022

Lysosomes are central organelles for cellular degradation and energy metabolism. Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of the most common neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorders characterized by intracellular accumulation of ceroid in neurons. Mutations in
KCTD7
, a gene encoding an adaptor of the CUL3-RING E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRL3) complex, are categorized as a unique NCL subtype. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we report various lysosomal and autophagic defects in KCTD7-deficient cells. Mechanistically, the CRL3-KCTD7 complex degrades CLN5, whereas patient-derived KCTD7 mutations disrupt the interaction between KCTD7-CUL3 or KCTD7-CLN5 and ultimately lead to excessive accumulation of CLN5. The accumulated CLN5 disrupts the interaction between CLN6/8 and lysosomal enzymes at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), subsequently impairing ER-to-Golgi trafficking of lysosomal enzymes. Our findings reveal previously unrecognized roles of KCTD7-mediated CLN5 proteolysis in lysosomal homeostasis and demonstrate that KCTD7 and CLN5 are biochemically linked and function in a common neurodegenerative pathway.
Metallic
Mimosa pudica
: A 3D biomimetic buckling structure made of metallic glasses
Authors: Li Jin-Feng , Soldatov Ivan-V. , Tang Xiao-Chang , Sun Bo-Yang , Schäfer Rudolf , Liu Song-Ling , Yan Yu-Qiang , Ke Hai-Bo , Sun Yong-Hao , Orava Jiri , Bai Hai-Yang
Published: August 2022

Metallic
Mimosa pudica
, a three-dimensional (3D) biomimetic structure made of metallic glass, is formed via laser patterning: Blooming, closing, and reversing of the metallic
M. pudica
can be controlled by an applied magnetic field or by manual reshaping. An array of laser-crystallized lines is written in a metallic glass ribbon. Changes in density and/or elastic modulus due to laser patterning result in an appropriate size mismatch between the shrunken crystalline regions and the glassy matrix. The residual stress and elastic distortion energy make the composite material to buckle within the elastic limit and to obey the minimum elastic energy criterion. This work not only provides a programming route for constructing buckling structures of metallic glasses but also provides clues for the study of materials with automatic functions desired in robotics, electronic devices, and, especially, medical devices in the field of medicine, such as vessel scaffolds and vascular filters, which require contactless expansion and contraction functions.
Revealing hidden defects through stored energy measurements of radiation damage
Authors: Hirst Charles A. , Granberg Fredric , Kombaiah Boopathy , Cao Penghui , Middlemas Scott , Kemp R. Scott , Li Ju , Nordlund Kai , Short Michael P.
Published: August 2022

With full knowledge of a material’s atomistic structure, it is possible to predict any macroscopic property of interest. In practice, this is hindered by limitations of the chosen characterization techniques. For example, electron microscopy is unable to detect the smallest and most numerous defects in irradiated materials. Instead of spatial characterization, we propose to detect and quantify defects through their excess energy. Differential scanning calorimetry of irradiated Ti measures defect densities five times greater than those determined using transmission electron microscopy. Our experiments also reveal two energetically distinct processes where the established annealing model predicts one. Molecular dynamics simulations discover the defects responsible and inform a new mechanism for the recovery of irradiation-induced defects. The combination of annealing experiments and simulations can reveal defects hidden to other characterization techniques and has the potential to uncover new mechanisms behind the evolution of defects in materials.
Combinations of anti-GITR antibody and CD28 superagonist induce permanent allograft acceptance by generating type 1 regulatory T cells
Authors: Que Weitao , Ma Kuai , Hu Xin , Guo Wen-Zhi , Li Xiao-Kang
Published: August 2022

Type 1 regulatory T (Tr1) cells represent a subset of IL-10–producing CD4
+
Foxp3
−
T cells and play key roles in promoting transplant tolerance. However, no effective pharmacological approaches have been able to induce Tr1 cells in vivo. We herein report the combined use of a CD28 superagonist (D665) and anti–glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor–related protein monoclonal antibody (G3c) to induce Tr1 cells in vivo. Large amounts of IL-10/interferon-γ–co-producing CD4
+
Foxp3
−
Tr1 cells were generated by D665-G3c sequential treatment in mice. Mechanistic studies suggested that D665-G3c induced Tr1 cells via transcription factors
Prdm1
and
Maf
. G3c contributed to Tr1 cell generation via the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase–signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling. Tr1 cells suppressed dendritic cell maturation and T cell responses and mediated permanent allograft acceptance in fully major histocompatibility complex–mismatched mice in an IL-10–dependent manner. In vivo Tr1 cell induction is a promising strategy for achieving transplant tolerance.
The global distribution of known and undiscovered ant biodiversity
Authors: Kass Jamie M. , Guénard Benoit , Dudley Kenneth L. , Jenkins Clinton N. , Azuma Fumika , Fisher Brian L. , Parr Catherine L. , Gibb Heloise , Longino John T. , Ward Philip S. , Chao Anne , Lubertazzi David , Weiser Michael , Jetz Walter , Guralnick Robert , Blatrix Rumsaïs , Lauriers James Des , Donoso David A. , Georgiadis Christos , Gomez Kiko , Hawkes Peter G. , Johnson Robert A. , Lattke John E. , MacGown Joe A. , Mackay William , Robson Simon , Sanders Nathan J. , Dunn Robert R. , Economo Evan P.
Published: August 2022

Invertebrates constitute the majority of animal species and are critical for ecosystem functioning and services. Nonetheless, global invertebrate biodiversity patterns and their congruences with vertebrates remain largely unknown. We resolve the first high-resolution (~20-km) global diversity map for a major invertebrate clade, ants, using biodiversity informatics, range modeling, and machine learning to synthesize existing knowledge and predict the distribution of undiscovered diversity. We find that ants and different vertebrate groups have distinct features in their patterns of richness and rarity, underscoring the need to consider a diversity of taxa in conservation. However, despite their phylogenetic and physiological divergence, ant distributions are not highly anomalous relative to variation among vertebrate clades. Furthermore, our models predict that rarity centers largely overlap (78%), suggesting that general forces shape endemism patterns across taxa. This raises confidence that conservation of areas important for small-ranged vertebrates will benefit invertebrates while providing a “treasure map” to guide future discovery.
Exocrine pancreas regeneration modifies original pancreas to alleviate diabetes in mouse models
Authors: Kou Xiaoxing , Liu Jin , Wang Dandan , Yu Ming , Li Can , Lu Lu , Chen Chider , Liu Dawei , Yu Wenjing , Yu Tingting , Liu Yao , Mao Xueli , Naji Ali , Cai Tao , Sun Lingyun , Shi Songtao
Published: August 2022

Diabetes is a major public health issue because of its widely epidemic nature and lack of cure. Here, we show that pancreas-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) are capable of regenerating exocrine pancreas when implanted into the kidney capsule of mice with streptozotocin (STZ)–induced diabetes. Mechanistically, we found that the regenerated exocrine pancreas elevated interleukin-6 (IL-6) in PMSC implants, which transiently activated tumor necrosis factor–α (TNF-α) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) to inhibit IL-17, thereby rescuing damaged exocrine pancreas and islet β cells. In addition, we used knockout mouse models to show that global lack of IL-6, TNF-α, or IFN-γ resulted in increased severity of STZ-induced diabetes and resistance to PMSC implantation therapy, confirming the roles of these factors in safeguarding pancreatic β cells. Furthermore, removal of the kidney capsule PMSC implants at 28 days after implantation did not affect the PMSC-initiated therapeutic effect on diabetic mice. This study reveals a previously unknown role of exocrine pancreas regeneration in safeguarding β cells and demonstrates a “soil-rescues-seed” strategy for type 1 diabetes therapy.
Mutations in
rv0678
Confer Low-Level Resistance to Benzothiazinone DprE1 Inhibitors in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Poulton Nicholas C. , Azadian Zachary A. , DeJesus Michael A. , Rock Jeremy M.
Published: August 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of death from any bacterial infection, causing 1.5 million deaths worldwide each year. Due to the emergence of drug-resistant strains of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(Mtb) there have been significant efforts aimed at developing novel drugs to treat TB.
The Sixth Element: a 102-kb RepABC Plasmid of Xenologous Origin Modulates Chromosomal Gene Expression in Dinoroseobacter shibae
Authors: Koppenhöfer Sonja , Tomasch Jürgen , Ringel Victoria , Birmes Lukas , Brinkmann Henner , Spröer Cathrin , Jarek Michael , Wang Hui , Pradella Silke , Wagner-Döbler Irene , Petersen Jörn
Published: August 2022

Plasmids are small DNA molecules that replicate independently of the bacterial chromosome. The common view of the role of plasmids is dominated by the accumulation of resistance genes, which is responsible for the antibiotic crisis in health care and livestock breeding.
The long-lived transcrustal magmatic systems of Southeast China in response to paleo-Pacific plate subduction, recorded by the Cretaceous volcanic sequences in southeastern Zhejiang Province
Authors: Liu Liang , Yang Jie-Hua , Kang Li-Fang , Zhong Hong , Zhang Xing-Chun
Published: August 2022

Processes taking place in subduction zones are highly debated. The Cretaceous volcanic rocks are voluminously distributed along the coastal area of southeastern (SE) China. To elucidate their petrogenesis and relationship with subduction, we use new zircon U-Pb ages and Hf-O isotopes for the representative Cretaceous volcanic sequences in Zhejiang Province, China. According to stratigraphic investigations, zircon U-Pb ages, and Hf-O isotopes, these volcanic rocks can be divided into different groups corresponding to three stages of volcanic activity: the early (Stage 1, 136−129 Ma), middle (Stage 2, 125−115 Ma), and late (Stage 3, 110−94 Ma) stages. Diverse zircon populations (including antecrysts, autocrysts, and xenocrysts) are recognized. Hf-O isotopes of autocrysts suggest different protoliths for the identified three stages of volcanic activity. Xenocrysts show obvious different compositions from autocrysts. Antecrysts share similar compositions with autocrysts, which favor similarities in the magmas from which they were generated. Our observations (very small age intervals between antecrysts and autocrysts, sources for volcanic rocks throughout the entire crust, and volcanic magmatism with long-term and discontinuous characteristics), were inconsistent with the traditional melt-dominated magma chamber model. Consequently, we propose that those volcanic rocks were derived from long-lived transcrustal magmatic systems (TCMS), dominated by crystal mush, instead of melt-dominated magma chambers, maintained and recharged by a discontinuous contribution of contemporaneous underplated mantle-derived magmas, triggered by paleo-Pacific plate subduction. We suggest the different stages of volcanic activity and corresponding long-lived TCMS were produced by the change of Pacific plate motion beneath SE China during the Cretaceous period.
Negative Differential Resistance and Shapiro Steps in a Superconducting MoN Strip with a Cut
Authors: Ustavschikov S. S. , Levichev M. Yu. , Pashen’kin I. Yu. , Gusev N. S. , Gusev S. A. , Vodolazov D. Yu.
Published: August 2022

Regions with a negative differential resistance have been revealed in the voltage–current characteristics of superconducting MoN strips with a side cut under high-power microwave irradiation. A region with the negative differential resistance in the voltage–current characteristic is adjacent to steps, which are particularly pronounced at a low power of microwave radiation and are similar to Shapiro steps in the Josephson junction. The analysis within the time-dependent Ginzburg–Landau and heat conduction equations for the electron temperature has shown that the negative differential resistance is possibly due to the disordered (chaotic) motion of vortices across the strip near the cut, which occurs at a high microwave power.
Comparative effectiveness of three versions of a stepped care model for insomnia differing in the amount of therapist support in internet-delivered treatment: study protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial (GET Sleep)
Authors: Spiegelhalder Kai , Baumeister Harald , Al-Kamaly Abdulwahab , Bader Martina , Bauereiss Natalie , Benz Fee , Braun Lina , Buntrock Claudia , Burkhardt Maike , Cuijpers Pim , Domschke Katharina , Dülsen Patrick , Franke Marvin , Frase Lukas , Heber Elena , Helm Kathrin , Jentsch Terry , Johann Anna , Küchler Ann-Marie , Kuhn Michael , Lehr Dirk , Maun Andy , Morin Charles M , Moshagen Morten , Richter Kneginja , Schiel Julian , Simon Laura , Spille Lukas , Weeß Hans-Günter , Riemann Dieter , Ebert David Daniel
Published: August 2022

Introduction

It is unclear how internet-delivered cognitive-behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) can be integrated into healthcare systems, and little is known about the optimal level of therapist guidance. The aim of this study is to investigate three different versions of a stepped care model for insomnia (IG1, IG2, IG3) versus treatment as usual (TAU). IG1, IG2 and IG3 rely on treatment by general practitioners (GPs) in the entry level and differ in the amount of guidance by e-coaches in internet-delivered CBT-I.

Methods and analysis

In this randomised controlled trial, 4268 patients meeting International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) criteria for insomnia will be recruited. The study will use cluster randomisation of GPs with an allocation ratio of 3:3:3:1 (IG1, IG2, IG3, TAU). In step 1 of the stepped care model, GPs will deliver psychoeducational treatment; in step 2, an internet-delivered CBT-I programme will be used; in step 3, GPs will refer patients to specialised treatment. Outcomes will be collected at baseline, and 4 weeks, 12 weeks and 6 months after baseline assessment. The primary outcome is insomnia severity at 6 months. An economic evaluation will be conducted and qualitative interviews will be used to explore barriers and facilitators of the stepped care model.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Medical Centre—University of Freiburg. The results of the study will be published irrespective of the outcome.

Trial registration number

DRKS00021503.
Probability of males to outlive females: an international comparison from 1751 to 2020
Authors: Bergeron-Boucher Marie-Pier , Alvarez Jesús-Adrian , Kashnitsky Ilya , Zarulli Virginia
Published: August 2022

Objective

To measure sex differences in lifespan based on the probability of males to outlive females.

Design

International comparison of national and regional sex-specific life tables from the Human Mortality Database and the World Population Prospects.

Setting

199 populations spanning all continents, between 1751 and 2020.

Primary outcome measure

We used the outsurvival statistic (
φ
) to measure inequality in lifespan between sexes, which is interpreted here as the probability of males to outlive females.

Results

In random pairs of one male and one female at age 0, the probability of the male outliving the female varies between 25% and 50% for life tables in almost all years since 1751 and across almost all populations. We show that
φ
is negatively correlated with sex differences in life expectancy and positively correlated with the level of lifespan variation. The important reduction of lifespan inequality observed in recent years has made it less likely for a male to outlive a female.

Conclusions

Although male life expectancy is generally lower than female life expectancy, and male death rates are usually higher at all ages, males have a substantial chance of outliving females. These findings challenge the general impression that ‘men do not live as long as women’ and reveal a more nuanced inequality in lifespans between females and males.
Online randomised factorial trial of electronic Screening and Brief Intervention for alcohol use in pregnancy: a study protocol
Authors: Ondersma Steven J , Todd Lisa , Jablonski Samantha , Ahuja Chaarushi , Gilstad-Hayden Kathryn , Goyert Gregory , Loree Amy , Heffner Jaimee , Yonkers Kimberly A
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Approximately 1 in 7 pregnant women in the USA report past-month alcohol use. Strong evidence connects prenatal alcohol exposure with a range of adverse perinatal outcomes, including the spectrum of conditions known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Screening and Brief Intervention (SBI) has been recommended for pregnant women but has proven difficult to implement. This study will test the efficacy of single-session technology-delivered SBI (electronic SBI) for alcohol use in pregnancy, while simultaneously evaluating the possible additional benefit of tailored text messages and/or booster sessions in a 3×2 factorial trial.

Method and analysis

This full factorial trial will use online advertising and clinic-based flyers to recruit pregnant women meeting criteria for unhealthy alcohol use, and randomly assign them to one of six conditions crossing three levels of brief intervention (none, single 120-minute session and single session plus two 5-minute boosters) with two levels of tailored text messaging (none vs twice weekly messages). The primary analysis will test for dose–response effects of the brief intervention on alcohol abstinence, defined as no self-report of alcohol use in the 90 days prior to 34 weeks’ gestation, and negative results for ethyl glucuronide analysis of fingernail samples. Secondary analyses will examine main and interaction effects of tailored text messaging as well as intervention effects on birth outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was provided by the Michigan State University Biomedical and Health Institutional Review Board (STUDY00005298). Results will be presented at conferences and community forums, in addition to being published in a peer-reviewed journal. Intervention content demonstrating sufficient efficacy and safety will be made publicly available.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT04332172).
What moral work can Nussbaum’s account of human dignity do in the context of dementia care?
Authors: Soofi Hojjat
Published: August 2022

Appeals to the dignity of people with dementia are widespread in the current literature on dementia care. One influential account of dignity in the wider philosophical and bioethical literature that has remained underexplored in the context of dementia care is that of Martha Nussbaum. This paper critically examines Nussbaum’s account of dignity and aims to determine what moral guidance this account can offer for the provision of care to people with dementia. To that end, first, I identify four possible objections to appeals to dignity in dementia care. These objections are (1) redundancy of the dignity talk, (2) exclusionary implications, (3) reliance on (suspect forms of) speciesism and (4) unclear practical implications. Then, I discuss whether, and to what extent, Nussbaum’s account of dignity can overcome these objections. I argue that Nussbaum’s account, in its original form, struggles to overcome the problem of exclusionary implications and consequently the problem of unclear practical implications. I argue for a modified version of Nussbaum’s account of dignity. I demonstrate that this modified version can better overcome all of the four objections, and it provides relatively clearer moral guidance for the provision of care to people with dementia. The modified version of Nussbaum’s account is predicated on a novel dementia-specific model of flourishing, which draws on Kitwood and Bredin’s empirically informed list of indicators of well-being for people with dementia.
Reimagining research ethics to include environmental sustainability: a principled approach, including a case study of data-driven health research
Authors: Samuel Gabrielle , Richie Cristina
Published: August 2022

In this paper we argue the need to reimagine research ethics frameworks to include notions of environmental sustainability. While there have long been calls for healthcareethics frameworks and decision-making to include aspects of sustainability, less attention has focused on howresearchethics frameworks could address this. To do this, we first describe the traditional approach to research ethics, which often relies on individualised notions of risk. We argue that we need to broaden this notion of individual risk to consider issues associated with environmental sustainability. This is because research is associated with carbon emissions and other environmental impacts, both of which cause climate change health hazards. We introduce how bioethics frameworks have considered notions of environmental sustainability and draw on these to help develop a framework suitable for researchers. We provide a case study of data-driven health research to apply our framework.
Imagining a post-antibiotic era: a cultural analysis of crisis and antibiotic resistance
Authors: Hansson Kristofer , Brenthel Adam
Published: August 2022

The study presented in this article is about the role played by imagination when national and international organisations convey the idea of a dystopian crisis involved in the real transition to a postantibiotic era. The present is an era that can be defined as a time when no new antibiotics are discovered or developed, and existing antibiotics simultaneously become less effective since bacteria develop resistance against the active substances. Today, antibiotic resistance is an international fact; thousands of people die every year in Europe and the USA as a result of bacteria that have become resistant. Then, imagination can conjure up a different and a much more dystopian future. This article stems from a public debate concerning the global increase of antibiotic resistance; and will examine how the concept of fantasy and imagination is central in picturing such a future crisis in society. The article’s empirical basis mainly consists of reports from global and Swedish organisations, dating from the 1990s and onwards. These fantasies show that our society has a strong urge to always try to understand and explain present time and to identify how ‘our’ era relates to the past as well as the future. The concept of crisis plays an important role in these fantasies, it is key to use it when thinking about change. The analysis builds on texts and illustrations from global organisations like the WHO and also national authorities in Sweden that aim to convey the science behind the challenge. The aim is to develop a theoretical and empirical understanding, from the perspective of cultural analysis, of how fantasy and crisis are linked when the future is conceived.
International consensus on anatomical structures to identify on
ultrasound for the performance of basic blocks in ultrasound-guided regional
anesthesia
Authors: Bowness James Simeon , Pawa Amit , Turbitt Lloyd , Bellew Boyne , Bedforth Nigel , Burckett-St Laurent David , Delbos Alain , Elkassabany Nabil , Ferry Jenny , Fox Ben , French James L H , Grant Calum , Gupta Ashwani , Harrop-Griffiths William , Haslam Nat , Higham Helen , Hogg Rosemary , Johnston David F , Kearns Rachel Joyce , Kopp Sandra , Lobo Clara , McKinlay Sonya , Memtsoudis Stavros , Merjavy Peter , Moka Eleni , Narayanan Madan , Narouze Samer , Noble J Alison , Phillips David , Rosenblatt Meg , Sadler Amy , Sebastian Maria Paz , Taylor Alasdair , Thottungal Athmaja , Valdés-Vilches Luis Fernando , Volk Thomas , West Simeon , Wolmarans Morné , Womack Jonathan , Macfarlane Alan James Robert
Published: August 2022

There is no universally agreed set of anatomical structures that must be
identified on ultrasound for the performance of ultrasound-guided regional
anesthesia (UGRA) techniques. This study aimed to produce standardized
recommendations for core (minimum) structures to identify during seven basic
blocks. An international consensus was sought through a modified Delphi
process. A long-list of anatomical structures was refined through serial
review by key opinion leaders in UGRA. All rounds were conducted remotely
and anonymously to facilitate equal contribution of each participant. Blocks
were considered twice in each round: for “orientation scanning” (the dynamic
process of acquiring the final view) and for the “block view” (which
visualizes the block site and is maintained for needle insertion/injection).
Strong recommendations for inclusion were made if ≥75% of participants rated
a structure as “definitely include” in any round. Weak recommendations were
made if >50% of participants rated a structure as “definitely include” or
“probably include” for all rounds (but the criterion for “strong
recommendation” was never met). Thirty-six participants (94.7%) completed
all rounds. 128 structures were reviewed; a “strong recommendation” is made
for 35 structures on orientation scanning and 28 for the block view. A “weak
recommendation” is made for 36 and 20 structures, respectively. This study
provides recommendations on the core (minimum) set of anatomical structures
to identify during ultrasound scanning for seven basic blocks in UGRA. They
are intended to support consistent practice, empower non-experts using basic
UGRA techniques, and standardize teaching and research.
Effects of supplementary cementitious materials on the durability of glass aggregate mortars
Authors: Gorospe Karla , Booya Emad , Das Sreekanta
Published: August 2022

The durability performance and sustainability of concrete and mortar can be enhanced by incorporating supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), such as fly ash, slag (SG), silica fume (SF), and metakaolin (MK). In this study, binary and ternary blends of the aforementioned SCMs were investigated to determine an optimal combination that enhances the durability of glass aggregate mortars. Compressive strength, chloride permeability, and sorptivity experiments were conducted for all mixtures at specimen ages of 28 and 90 days. Fourteen day alkali silica reaction tests were also performed to determine the expansion properties. It was determined that ternary blends of fly ash and SF effectively mitigate expansions, with mixtures containing fly ash being most effective due to its high silica (SiO2) content. Ternary blends of SG and SF were also found to be successful in reducing permeability. In addition, it was determined that optimal durability performance can be achieved with 10% MK and SF replacements.
Seven hydrogeological terrains characteristic of southern Ontario
Authors: Sharpe D.R.
Published: August 2022

Groundwater is an important component of the hydrological cycle of southern Ontario, significant to water supply and discharge to surface water. To improve overall understanding of key hydrological mechanisms, a proof-of-concept framework is presented that consists of seven typical terrains or hydrogeological settings. Geologic and topographic controls influence each setting as recorded by climate, streamflow, and groundwater level data, which trace how water moves through various parts of the southern Ontario landscape. This hydrogeological framework considers the geology of surface sediment and bedrock, permeability and porosity (inferred), physiography, and topographic gradients to define seven distinctive hydrogeological terrains. The data and watershed selection process allow for concentration on patterns of hydrologic response across the landscape, with less focus on hydrologic accounting of the terrain. The analysis identifies events in climate, stream, and well-monitoring data indicative of influxes and temporal patterns of hydrological and hydrogeological response to local geology and topography, thus differentiating styles of groundwater movement in sediment/bedrock landscapes of the Paleozoic basin and Shield margin. A case study is provided for each setting: five in sediment (clay, sand, gravel, till upland, and thick till); and two in bedrock (crystalline and carbonate). The selected hydrogeological terrains characterize ∼90% of the landscape based on a simplified geological map of southern Ontario. The main hydrogeological characteristics and behaviour of these terrains are proposed as a set of conceptual models representative of near-surface groundwater regimes. Such models can inform water and land resource management as future climates change.
Estimating survival probabilities of Cambridge Bay Arctic char using acoustic telemetry data and Bayesian multistate capture–recapture models
Authors: Munaweera Inesh , Harris Les N. , Moore Jean-Sébastien , Tallman Ross F. , Fisk Aaron T. , Gillis Darren M. , Muthukumarana Saman
Published: August 2022

Arctic fishes are threatened by climatic change and other anthropogenic stressors, yet information on how such changes impact survival remains scarce. Acoustic telemetry has become valuable for studying aspects of fish ecology, including survival, which is invaluable in understanding potential responses to changing conditions. In Cambridge Bay, NU, we have been using acoustic telemetry to study movements and habitat use of the culturally and commercially important Arctic char ( Salvelinus alpinus). Here, we combine acoustic telemetry data and Bayesian multistate mark–recapture models to study the survival of Arctic char from 2014 to 2018 in the region in freshwater and marine/estuarine habitats. We found that survival probabilities were high (>0.87) and models considering two environments (freshwater and marine) perform better than those considering three (including estuarine habitats). Furthermore, the survival in fresh water was higher than survival in marine/estuary environments. Overall, the results of this study further our understanding of important demographic parameters (i.e., survival) for Arctic char in the region, which will be useful in refining fishery management plans for the largest commercial fishery for this species in Canada.
Identifying and analyzing spatial and temporal patterns of lightning-ignited wildfires in Western Canada from 1981 to 2018
Authors: Aftergood Olivia S.R. , Flannigan Mike D.
Published: August 2022

To assess wildfire risk linked to lightning-caused wildfires, the present study tests the spatial- and temporal-scale distribution variability of lightning fires in Western Canada between 1981 and 2018. We examined clustering, trends, distances between clusters, and the fire season. For this study, the nearest neighbours, K-function, Moran's I, Mann–Kendall, and the Getis-ord Gi* statistics were used. These statistics were visualized by a Space Time Cube model with a hexagon grid. Lightning-ignited wildfires cluster spatially up to 270 km with an observed overall nonsignificant decreasing trend for the number of fires. Overall, northeastern Alberta, central Saskatchewan, and southeastern British Columbia show clustering of lightning fires. In June, there is significant clustering in northwestern and eastern Alberta, while in July fires cluster in northeastern Alberta and in southeastern British Columbia. In August, fire clusters occurred only in southeastern and south-central British Columbia. These results highlight regions that are experiencing persistent lightning fire clustering activity. This provides a focal point to assess wildfire risk to communities and values at risk, while informing local and regional management agencies in preparedness, resource capacity management, and detection. Additionally, it provides a baseline for future research into biophysical modelling of wildfire initiations.
A mutation in the putative CRP binding site of the dctA promoter of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium enables growth with low orotate concentrations
Authors: Amin Mohammad R. , Korchinski Lisa , Yoneda Joshua K. , Thakkar Rishi , Sanson Carla L.A. , Fitzgerald Stephen F. , Kelln Rod A. , Cameron Andrew D.S.
Published: August 2022

Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli use the inner membrane transporter DctA to import the pyrimidine biosynthetic pathway intermediate orotate from the environment. To study the regulation of dctA expression, we used an S. enterica serovar Typhimurium pyrimidine auxotroph to select a mutant that could grow in an otherwise nonpermissive culture medium containing glucose and a low concentration of orotate. Whole genome sequencing revealed a point mutation upstream of dctA in the putative cyclic AMP receptor protein (CRP) binding site. The C→T transition converted the least favourable base to the most favourable base for CRP–DNA affinity. A dctA::lux transcriptional fusion confirmed that the mutant dctA promoter gained responsiveness to CRP even in the presence of glucose. Moreover, dctA expression was higher in the mutant than the wild type in the presence of alternative carbon sources that activate CRP.