bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
His potential injury as the end point of screwing by a continuous recording technique in His bundle pacing: A case report
Authors: Zhong Jinyan , Jiang Longfu
Published: April 2024

Background

His bundle pacing (HBP) engaged electrical activation of both ventricles by stimulating the His‐Purkinje network, which could avoid marked ventricles dyssynchrony. The lead was given three to five clockwise rotations at the site with the His potential to anchor the interventricular septum. In 2018, the Multicenter His Bundle Pacing Collaborative Working Group recommended that the His bundle capture threshold should be lower than 2.5 V/1 ms in non‐pacing‐dependent patients, and pacing‐dependent patients should have a lower adjacent ventricular capture threshold as self‐backup. Therefore, to avoid safety issues such as loss of capture caused by increased threshold, we believe that more stringent criteria should be adopted in patients with atrioventricular block (AVB). In previous studies, the connection cable needed to be disconnected during the screwing. When the procedure was finished, the performer found that the patients with His bundle injury could obtain a lower threshold than those without His bundle injury. Although no studies of new bundle branch block (BBB) or AVB by the acute His bundle injury was reported. However, It is worrying that the damage of His bundle seems random during the procedure. How to balance avoiding severe injury with a lower capture threshold? At present, we report a case of light His injury and lower His capture threshold under continuous intracardiac electrocardiogram monitoring.
On the provision of excludable public goods: General taxes or user prices?
Authors: Economides George , Philippopoulos Apostolis
Published: April 2024

This paper compares some of the most common ways of financing the provision of publicly provided impure public goods/services in a unified dynamic general equilibrium framework with heterogeneous income groups. The focus is on the effects of user prices on individual incentives and how the latter shape aggregate outcomes and distribution. We show that a market‐like mechanism of user prices not only improves individual incentives and enhances aggregate efficiency, but it is also Pareto improving. However, such a mechanism is not beneficial or simply collapses when social externalities are strong, when the government adopts a mixed system that combines user prices with heavy subsidization of user costs, and when there is a minimum amount of the good that everybody needs.
Aesthetic doctors’ perception and attitudes toward tolerance in botulinum toxin
Authors: Oh Seung Min , Kim Hyoung Moon , Ahn Tae Hwan , Park Min Soo , Ree Yoo‐Seock , Park Eun Soo
Published: April 2024

Background

Botulinum toxin is a crucial therapeutic tool with broad indications in both cosmetic and medical fields. However, the expanding cosmetic use and increased dosages of botulinum toxin have raised concerns about resistance, making it essential to study the awareness and management practices among healthcare professionals.

Methods

A survey was conducted among clinical physicians using botulinum toxin. The study investigated their experiences, awareness, and management practices related to toxin resistance. Real‐time mobile app‐based surveys were administered to clinicians attending the 45th International Academic Conference of the Korean Academy of Laser and Dermatology (KALDAT) on December 3, 2023.

Results

Among 3140 participants, 673 clinical physicians completed the survey. Of these, 363 clinicians (53.9%) reported experiencing botulinum toxin resistance. Regarding the resistance rate, 59.4% indicated less than 1%, 36% reported approximately 1%–25%, and 95.4% reported less than 25%. Efforts to prevent resistance included maintaining intervals of over 3 months (54.8%), using products with lower resistance potential (47.0%), employing minimal effective doses (28.2%), and minimizing re‐administration (14.9%).

Conclusion

In the South Korean aesthetic medicine community, a majority of clinical physician's report encountering botulinum toxin resistance. Given the potential loss of various benefits associated with resistance, there is a need to establish appropriate guidelines based on mechanistic studies and current status assessments. Educating clinicians on applicable guidelines is crucial.
The novel HLA‐A*30:01:23 allele characterised by two different sequencing‐based typing techniques
Authors: Dhuyser Adèle , Pérès Michaël , Clément Sandra , Morel Thomas , Aarnink Alice
Published: April 2024

The novel allele HLA‐A*30:01:23 differs from HLA‐A*30:01:01:01 by one synonymous nucleotide substitution in exon 2.
Characterisation of RAET1E/ULBP4 exon 4 and 3′ untranslated region genetic architecture reveals further diversity and allelic polymorphism
Authors: Cox Steven T. , Haver Daniel S. , Patterson Warren , Cambridge Charlotte A. , Turner Thomas R. , Danby Robert D. , Hernandez Diana
Published: April 2024

NKG2D is a natural killer cell activating receptor recognising ligands on infected or tumorigenic cells, leading to their cytolysis. There are eight known genes encoding NKG2D ligands: MICA, MICB and ULBP1‐6. MICA and MICB are highly polymorphic and well characterised, whilst ULBP ligands are less polymorphic and the functional implication of their diversity is not well understood. Using International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop (IHIW) cell line DNA, we previously characterised alleles of the RAET1E gene (encoding ULBP4 proteins), including the 5′ UTR promoter region and exons 1–3. We found 11 promoter haplotypes associating with alleles based on exons 1–3, revealing 19 alleles overall. The current study extends this analysis using 87 individual DNA samples from IHIW cell lines or cord blood to include RAET1E exon 4 and the 3′ UTR, as polymorphism in these regions have not been previously investigated. We found two novel exon 4 polymorphisms encoding amino acid substitutions altering the transmembrane domain. An amino acid substitution at residue 233 was unique to the RAET1E*008 allele whereas the substitution at residue 237 was shared between groups of alleles. Additionally, four haplotypes were found based on 3′ UTR sequences, which were unique to certain alleles or shared with allele groups based on exons 1–4 polymorphisms. Furthermore, putative microRNAs were identified that may interact with these polymorphic sites, repressing transcription and potentially affecting expression levels.
The novel HLA‐B*35:01:77 allele identified in a Russian volunteer bone marrow donor
Authors: Khamaganova Ekaterina , Leonov Evgeny , Abdrakhimova Alena , Kuzminova Elena , Gaponova Tatiana
Published: April 2024

Nucleotide substitutions in the 5′UTR and exon 2 of HLA‐B*35:01:01:05 result in a novel allele, HLA‐B*35:01:77.
Phenylalanine treatment induces tomato resistance to Tuta absoluta via increased accumulation of benzenoid/phenylpropanoid volatiles serving as defense signals
Authors: Kumar Varun , Nadarajan Stalin , Boddupally Dayakar , Wang Ru , Bar Einat , Davidovich‐Rikanati Rachel , Doron‐Faigenboim Adi , Alkan Noam , Lewinsohn Efraim , Elad Yigal , Oren‐Shamir Michal
Published: April 2024

Tuta absoluta (“leafminer”), is a major pest of tomato crops worldwide. Controlling this insect is difficult due to its efficient infestation, rapid proliferation, and resilience to changing weather conditions. Furthermore, chemical pesticides have only a short‐term effect due to rapid development of T. absoluta strains. Here, we show that a variety of tomato cultivars, treated with external phenylalanine solutions exhibit high resistance to T. absoluta, under both greenhouse and open field conditions, at different locations. A large‐scale metabolomic study revealed that tomato leaves absorb and metabolize externally given Phe efficiently, resulting in a change in their volatile profile, and repellence of T. absoluta moths. The change in the volatile profile is due to an increase in three phenylalanine‐derived benzenoid phenylpropanoid volatiles (BPVs), benzaldehyde, phenylacetaldehyde, and 2‐phenylethanol. This treatment had no effect on terpenes and green leaf volatiles, known to contribute to the fight against insects. Phe‐treated plants also increased the resistance of neighboring non‐treated plants. RNAseq analysis of the neighboring non‐treated plants revealed an exclusive upregulation of genes, with enrichment of genes related to the plant immune response system. Exposure of tomato plants to either benzaldehyde, phenylacetaldehyde, or 2‐phenylethanol, resulted in induction of genes related to the plant immune system that were also induced due to neighboring Phe‐treated plants. We suggest a novel role of phenylalanine‐derived BPVs as mediators of plant–insect interactions, acting as inducers of the plant defense mechanisms.
Solanum pennellii (LA5240) backcross inbred lines (BILs) for high resolution mapping in tomato
Authors: Torgeman Shai , Pleban Tzili , Goldberg Yael , Ferrante Paola , Aprea Giuseppe , Giuliano Giovanni , Yichie Yoav , Fisher Josef , Zemach Itay , Koch Amit , Rochsar Edan , Oved Matan , Bandel Kfir , Zamir Dani
Published: April 2024

Wild species are an invaluable source of new traits for crop improvement. Over the years, the tomato community bred cultivated lines that carry introgressions from different species of the tomato tribe to facilitate trait discovery and mapping. The next phase in such projects is to find the genes that drive the identified phenotypes. This can be achieved by genotyping a few thousand individuals resulting in fine mapping that can potentially identify the causative gene. To couple trait discovery and fine mapping, we are presenting large, recombination‐rich, Backcross Inbred Line (BIL) populations involving an unexplored accession of the wild, green‐fruited species Solanum pennellii (LA5240; the ‘Lost’ Accession) with two modern tomato inbreds: LEA, determinate, and TOP, indeterminate. The LEA and TOP BILs are in BC2F6–8 generation and include 1400 and 500 lines, respectively. The BILs were genotyped with 5000 SPET markers, showing that in the euchromatic regions there was one recombinant every 17–18 Kb while in the heterochromatin a recombinant every 600–700 Kb (TOP and LEA respectively). To gain perspective on the topography of recombination we compared five independent members of the Self‐pruning gene family with their respective neighboring genes; based on PCR markers, in all cases we found recombinants. Further mapping analysis of two known morphological mutations that segregated in the BILs (self‐pruning and hairless) showed that the maximal delimited intervals were 73 Kb and 210 Kb, respectively, and included the known causative genes. The ‘Lost’_BILs provide a solid framework to study traits derived from a drought‐tolerant wild tomato.
Validation of the Reichert® Tono‐Vera® Vet rebound tonometer in normal ex vivo canine eyes
Authors: Kapeller Lydia E. , Buckman Phillip N. , Wang Sichao , Komáromy András M.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine the accuracy of the Reichert® Tono‐Vera® Vet rebound tonometer for canine intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement.

Animals Studied

Five normal canine ex vivo globes.

Procedures

The anterior chambers of five freshly enucleated normal canine eyes were cannulated and connected to a reservoir of Plasma‐Lyte A and a manometer. Starting at a manometric IOP of 5 mmHg, the pressure was progressively increased to 80 mmHg by raising the reservoir. Triplicate IOP measurements were taken with the Tono‐Vera® Vet from the central cornea using the dog setting and compared to the manometric pressure by linear regression analysis and Bland–Altman plots.

Results

There was a strong positive linear regression trend when comparing central corneal Tono‐Vera® Vet IOPs to manometric pressures (r2 = .99) with solid agreement between the two methods. Compared to manometric IOPs, the Tono‐Vera® Vet underestimated IOPs at higher pressures ≥70 mmHg.

Conclusions

Measurement of IOPs from the central cornea with the Tono‐Vera® Vet provided accurate results over a large range in normal canine globes compared to direct manometry. The mild to moderate underestimation of IOPs at high pressures was not considered clinically relevant.
Acute hypoalgesic, neurophysiological and perceptual responses to low‐load blood flow restriction exercise and high‐load resistance exercise
Authors: Norbury Ryan , Grant Ian , Woodhead Alex , Hughes Luke , Tallent Jamie , Patterson Stephen D.
Published: April 2024

This study compared the acute hypoalgesic and neurophysiological responses to low‐load resistance exercise with and without blood flow restriction (BFR), and free‐flow, high‐load exercise. Participants performed four experimental conditions where they completed baseline measures of pain pressure threshold (PPT), maximum voluntary force (MVF) with peripheral nerve stimulation to determine central and peripheral fatigue. Corticospinal excitability (CSE), corticospinal inhibition and short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) were estimated with transcranial magnetic stimulation. Participants then performed low‐load leg press exercise at 30% of one‐repetition maximum (LL); low‐load leg press with BFR at 40% (BFR40) or 80% (BFR80) of limb occlusion pressure; or high‐load leg press of four sets of 10 repetitions at 70% one‐repetition maximum (HL). Measurements were repeated at 5, 45 min and 24 h post‐exercise. There were no differences in CSE or SICI between conditions (all P > 0.05); however, corticospinal inhibition was reduced to a greater extent (11%–14%) in all low‐load conditions compared to HL (P < 0.005). PPTs were 12%–16% greater at 5 min post‐exercise in BFR40, BFR80 and HL compared to LL (P ≤ 0.016). Neuromuscular fatigue displayed no clear difference in the magnitude or time course between conditions (all P > 0.05). In summary, low‐load BFR resistance exercise does not induce different acute neurophysiological responses to low‐load, free‐flow exercise but it does promote a greater degree of hypoalgesia and reduces corticospinal inhibition more than high‐load exercise, making it a useful rehabilitation tool. The changes in neurophysiology following exercise were not related to changes in PPT.
Effects of Antifoaming Agents on Manufacturing Silver Dendrites Through Fluoride-Assisted Galvanic Replacement Reaction
Authors: Lee Pee-Yew , Li Chen-Yu , Bai Yi-Hong , Huang Hung Ji , Weng Chun-Jen , Lin Yung-Sheng
Published: April 2024

In fluoride-assisted galvanic replacement reaction (FAGRR), metallic dendrites are formed simultaneously with hydrogen gas. However, the presence of hydrogen bubbles impedes the reduction of metallic ions to form metallic dendrites. This study investigates the FAGRR approach to manufacturing Ag dendrites where ethanol is incorporated into an AgNO3 reaction solution. The findings of this study demonstrate the efficacy of ethanol as an antifoaming agent in enhancing the deposition of the Ag dendrites during the FAGRR process. The antifoaming effect of ethanol becomes more intense at higher concentrations of AgNO3. The introduction of ethanol into FAGRR can significantly improve processing efficiency and yield in the limited time for manufacturing science and engineering.
col1a2
+

fibroblasts/muscle progenitors finetune xanthophore countershading by differentially expressing
csf1a/1b
in embryonic zebrafish
Authors: Chen Jiahao , Wang Honggao , Wu Shuting , Zhang Ao , Qiu Zhongkai , Huang Peng , Qu Jianan Y. , Xu Jin
Published: April 2024

Animals evolve diverse pigment patterns to adapt to the natural environment. Countershading, characterized by a dark-colored dorsum and a light-colored ventrum, is one of the most prevalent pigment patterns observed in vertebrates. In this study, we reveal a mechanism regulating xanthophore countershading in zebrafish embryos. We found that
csf1a
and
csf1b
mutants altered xanthophore countershading differently:
csf1a
mutants lack ventral xanthophores, while
csf1b
mutants have reduced dorsal xanthophores. Further study revealed that
csf1a
is expressed throughout the trunk, whereas
csf1b
is expressed dorsally. Ectopic expression of
csf1a
or
csf1b
in neurons attracted xanthophores into the spinal cord. Blocking
csf1
signaling by
csf1ra
mutants disrupts spinal cord distribution and normal xanthophores countershading. Single-cell RNA sequencing identified two

col1a2
+

populations:

csf1a
high
csf1b
high

muscle progenitors and

csf1a
high
csf1b
low

fibroblast progenitors. Ablation of

col1a2
+

fibroblast and muscle progenitors abolished xanthophore patterns. Our study suggests that fibroblast and muscle progenitors differentially express
csf1a
and
csf1b
to modulate xanthophore patterning, providing insights into the mechanism of countershading.
Structural and quantum chemical basis for OCP-mediated quenching of phycobilisomes
Authors: Sauer Paul V. , Cupellini Lorenzo , Sutter Markus , Bondanza Mattia , Domínguez Martin María Agustina , Kirst Henning , Bína David , Koh Adrian Fujiet , Kotecha Abhay , Greber Basil J. , Nogales Eva , Polívka Tomáš , Mennucci Benedetta , Kerfeld Cheryl A.
Published: April 2024

Cyanobacteria use large antenna complexes called phycobilisomes (PBSs) for light harvesting. However, intense light triggers non-photochemical quenching, where the orange carotenoid protein (OCP) binds to PBS, dissipating excess energy as heat. The mechanism of efficiently transferring energy from phycocyanobilins in PBS to canthaxanthin in OCP remains insufficiently understood. Using cryo–electron microscopy, we unveiled the OCP-PBS complex structure at 1.6- to 2.1-angstrom resolution, showcasing its inherent flexibility. Using multiscale quantum chemistry, we disclosed the quenching mechanism. Identifying key protein residues, we clarified how canthaxanthin’s transition dipole moment in its lowest-energy dark state becomes large enough for efficient energy transfer from phycocyanobilins. Our energy transfer model offers a detailed understanding of the atomic determinants of light harvesting regulation and antenna architecture in cyanobacteria.
Disrupted de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis impairs adult hippocampal neurogenesis and cognition in pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy
Authors: Yan Jianfei , Wu Junjie , Xu Mingyue , Wang Min , Guo Weixiang
Published: April 2024

Despite seizure control by early high-dose pyridoxine (vitamin B6) treatment, at least 75% of pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy (PDE) patients with
ALDH7A1
mutation still suffer from intellectual disability. It points to a need for additional therapeutic interventions for PDE beyond pyridoxine treatment, which provokes us to investigate the mechanisms underlying the impairment of brain hemostasis by ALDH7A1 deficiency. In this study, we show that ALDH7A1-deficient mice with seizure control exhibit altered adult hippocampal neurogenesis and impaired cognitive functions. Mechanistically, ALDH7A1 deficiency leads to the accumulation of toxic lysine catabolism intermediates, α-aminoadipic-δ-semialdehyde and its cyclic form, δ-1-piperideine-6-carboxylate, which in turn impair de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis and inhibit NSC proliferation and differentiation. Notably, supplementation of pyrimidines rescues abnormal neurogenesis and cognitive impairment in ALDH7A1-deficient adult mice. Therefore, our findings not only define the important role of ALDH7A1 in the regulation of adult hippocampal neurogenesis but also provide a potential therapeutic intervention to ameliorate the defective mental capacities in PDE patients with seizure control.
Cellular atlas of the human ovary using morphologically guided spatial transcriptomics and single-cell sequencing
Authors: Jones Andrea S. K. , Hannum D. Ford , Machlin Jordan H. , Tan Ansen , Ma Qianyi , Ulrich Nicole D. , Shen Yu-chi , Ciarelli Maria , Padmanabhan Vasantha , Marsh Erica E. , Hammoud Sue , Li Jun Z. , Shikanov Ariella
Published: April 2024

The reproductive and endocrine functions of the ovary involve spatially defined interactions among specialized cell populations. Despite the ovary’s importance in fertility and endocrine health, functional attributes of ovarian cells are largely uncharacterized. Here, we profiled >18,000 genes in 257 regions from the ovaries of two premenopausal donors to examine the functional units in the ovary. We also generated single-cell RNA sequencing data for 21,198 cells from three additional donors and identified four major cell types and four immune cell subtypes. Custom selection of sampling areas revealed distinct gene activities for oocytes, theca, and granulosa cells. These data contributed panels of oocyte-, theca-, and granulosa-specific genes, thus expanding the knowledge of molecular programs driving follicle development. Serial samples around oocytes and across the cortex and medulla uncovered previously unappreciated variation of hormone and extracellular matrix remodeling activities. This combined spatial and single-cell atlas serves as a resource for future studies of rare cells and pathological states in the ovary.
Latched detection of zeptojoule spin echoes with a kinetic inductance parametric oscillator
Authors: Vine Wyatt , Kringhøj Anders , Savytskyi Mykhailo , Parker Daniel , Schenkel Thomas , Johnson Brett C. , McCallum Jeffrey C. , Morello Andrea , Pla Jarryd J.
Published: April 2024

When strongly pumped at twice their resonant frequency, nonlinear resonators develop a high-amplitude intracavity field, a phenomenon known as parametric self-oscillations. The boundary over which this instability occurs can be extremely sharp and thereby presents an opportunity for realizing a detector. Here, we operate such a device based on a superconducting microwave resonator whose nonlinearity is engineered from kinetic inductance. The device indicates the absorption of low-power microwave wavepackets by transitioning to a self-oscillating state. Using calibrated pulses, we measure the detection efficiency to zeptojoule energy wavepackets. We then apply it to measurements of electron spin resonance, using an ensemble of209Bi donors in silicon that are inductively coupled to the resonator. We achieve a latched readout of the spin signal with an amplitude that is five hundred times greater than the underlying spin echoes.
A DNA circuit that records molecular events
Authors: Zhang Mingzhi , Yancey Colin , Zhang Chao , Wang Junyan , Ma Qian , Yang Linlin , Schulman Rebecca , Han Da , Tan Weihong
Published: April 2024

Characterizing the relative onset time, strength, and duration of molecular signals is critical for understanding the operation of signal transduction and genetic regulatory networks. However, detecting multiple such molecules as they are produced and then quickly consumed is challenging. A MER can encode information about transient molecular events as stable DNA sequences and are amenable to downstream sequencing or other analysis. Here, we report the development of a de novo molecular event recorder that processes information using a strand displacement reaction network and encodes the information using the primer exchange reaction, which can be decoded and quantified by DNA sequencing. The event recorder was able to classify the order at which different molecular signals appeared in time with 88% accuracy, the concentrations with 100% accuracy, and the duration with 75% accuracy. This simultaneous and highly programmable multiparameter recording could enable the large-scale deciphering of molecular events such as within dynamic reaction environments, living cells, or tissues.
AS03 adjuvant enhances the magnitude, persistence, and clonal breadth of memory B cell responses to a plant-based COVID-19 vaccine in humans
Authors: Grigoryan Lilit , Feng Yupeng , Bellusci Lorenza , Lai Lilin , Wali Bushra , Ellis Madison , Yuan Meng , Arunachalam Prabhu S. , Hu Mengyun , Kowli Sangeeta , Gupta Sheena , Maysel-Auslender Sofia , Maecker Holden T. , Samaha Hady , Rouphael Nadine , Wilson Ian A. , Moreno Alberto C. , Suthar Mehul S. , Khurana Surender , Pillet Stéphane , Charland Nathalie , Ward Brian J. , Pulendran Bali
Published: April 2024

Vaccine adjuvants increase the breadth of serum antibody responses, but whether this is due to the generation of antigen-specific B cell clones with distinct specificities or the maturation of memory B cell clones that produce broadly cross-reactive antibodies is unknown. Here, we longitudinally analyzed immune responses in healthy adults after two-dose vaccination with either a virus-like particle COVID-19 vaccine (CoVLP), CoVLP adjuvanted with AS03 (CoVLP+AS03), or a messenger RNA vaccination (mRNA-1273). CoVLP+AS03 enhanced the magnitude and durability of circulating antibodies and antigen-specific CD4
+
T cell and memory B cell responses. Antigen-specific CD4
+
T cells in the CoVLP+AS03 group at day 42 correlated with antigen-specific memory B cells at 6 months. CoVLP+AS03 induced memory B cell responses, which accumulated somatic hypermutations over 6 months, resulting in enhanced neutralization breadth of monoclonal antibodies. Furthermore, the fraction of broadly neutralizing antibodies encoded by memory B cells increased between day 42 and 6 months. These results indicate that AS03 enhances the antigenic breadth of B cell memory at the clonal level and induces progressive maturation of the B cell response.
Un-BAFFling gray matter pathology in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ford-Roshon Dane , Mendiola Andrew S.
Published: April 2024

BAFF mediates the neuroprotective effects of B cell depletion therapy in multiple sclerosis.
Differential development of antibiotic resistance and virulence between
Acinetobacter
species
Authors: Darby Elizabeth M. , Moran Robert A. , Holden Emma , Morris Theresa , Harrison Freya , Clough Barbara , McInnes Ross S. , Schneider Ludwig , Frickel Eva M. , Webber Mark A. , Blair Jessica M. A.
Published: April 2024

The two species that account for most cases of
Acinetobacter
-associated bacteremia in the United Kingdom are
Acinetobacter lwoffii
, often a commensal but also an emerging pathogen, and
Acinetobacter baumannii
, a well-known antibiotic-resistant species. While these species both cause similar types of human infection and occupy the same niche,
A. lwoffii
(unlike
A. baumannii
) has thus far remained susceptible to antibiotics. Comparatively little is known about the biology of
A. lwoffii
, and this is the largest study on it conducted to date, providing valuable insights into its behaviour and potential threat to human health. This study aimed to explain the antibiotic susceptibility, virulence, and fundamental biological differences between these two species. The relative susceptibility of
A. lwoffii
was explained as it encoded fewer antibiotic resistance and efflux pump genes than
A. baumannii
(9 and 30, respectively). While both species had markers of horizontal gene transfer,
A. lwoffii
encoded more DNA defense systems and harbored a far more restricted range of plasmids. Furthermore,
A. lwoffii
displayed a reduced ability to select for antibiotic resistance mutations, form biofilm, and infect both
in vivo
and in
in vitro
models of infection. This study suggests that the emerging pathogen
A. lwoffii
has remained susceptible to antibiotics because mechanisms exist to make it highly selective about the DNA it acquires, and we hypothesize that the fact that it only harbors a single RND system restricts the ability to select for resistance mutations. This provides valuable insights into how development of resistance can be constrained in Gram-negative bacteria.

IMPORTANCE

Acinetobacter lwoffii
is often a harmless commensal but is also an emerging pathogen and is the most common cause of
Acinetobacter
-derived bloodstream infections in England and Wales. In contrast to the well-studied and often highly drug-resistant
A. baumannii
,
A. lwoffii
has remained susceptible to antibiotics. This study explains why this organism has not evolved resistance to antibiotics. These new insights are important to understand why and how some species develop antibiotic resistance, while others do not, and could inform future novel treatment strategies.
ERRATUM: Mineralization and genesis of the orogenic gold system in the Kalamaili area, East Junggar, Xinjiang, northwestern China
Authors: Gu Xuexiang , Zhang Yongmei , Ge Zhanlin , Chen Weizhi
Published: April 2024

The correct citation for Figures 1A and 1B was mistakenly left out of the original paper. See PDF file for details.
New precise age constraints of the Hatu gold belt, west Junggar, NW China: Implications for a 300 Ma magmatic hydrothermal event in post-collisional setting
Authors: An Fang , Qiu Tian , Zhang Hong , Yuan Honglin , Zhu Yongfeng
Published: April 2024

A 300 Ma magmatic hydrothermal ore-forming process is identified in the Hatu gold belt in west Junggar, northwest China, based on precise age constraint by secondary ion mass spectroscopy U-Pb dating of hydrothermal zircon and Ar-Ar dating of muscovite. The gold deposits in the Hatu belt (Hatu, Qi-V, Huilvshan, etc.) are similar in geology, with NE- and NW-trending orebodies composed of gold-bearing quartz veins and auriferous altered tuffaceous wall-rocks. Hydrothermal zircon grains separated from gold-bearing quartz veins in the Qi-V gold deposit provide a concordia age of 299.6 Ma and a nearly identical weighted mean 206Pb/238U age of 300 ± 2 Ma. Muscovite samples also from the gold-bearing quartz veins yield 40Ar/39Ar plateau ages of 299.6 ± 1.7 Ma, 299.9 ± 1.8 Ma, and 300.6 ± 1.9 Ma. By comprehensive compilation of geological and geochemical characteristics, tectonic evolution, and geochronology of the gold deposits in the Hatu gold belt, our new precise age data confirm that the gold deposits in the Hatu belt formed simultaneously at ca. 300 Ma, and likely formed during a post-collisional extensional setting by magmatic hydrothermal fluid from cooling magmatic sources.
Clinical and cost-effectiveness of individualised (early) patient-directed rehabilitation versus standard rehabilitation after surgical repair of the rotator cuff of the shoulder: protocol for a multicentre, randomised controlled trial with integrated Quintet Recruitment Intervention (RaCeR 2)
Authors: Mazuquin Bruno , Moffatt Maria , Realpe Alba , Sherman Rachelle , Ireland Katie , Connan Zak , Tildsley Jack , Manca Andrea , Gc Vijay Singh , Foster Nadine E , Rees Jonathan , Drew Steven , Bateman Marcus , Fakis Apostolos , Farnsworth Malin , Littlewood Chris
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Despite the high number of operations and surgical advancement, rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair has not progressed for over 20 years. The traditional cautious approach might be contributing to suboptimal outcomes. Our aim is to assess whether individualised (early) patient-directed rehabilitation results in less shoulder pain and disability at 12 weeks after surgical repair of full-thickness tears of the rotator cuff compared with current standard (delayed) rehabilitation.

Methods and analysis

The rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair (RaCeR 2) study is a pragmatic multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial with internal pilot phase. It has a parallel group design with 1:1 allocation ratio, full health economic evaluation and quintet recruitment intervention. Adults awaiting arthroscopic surgical repair of a full-thickness tear are eligible to participate. On completion of surgery, 638 participants will be randomised. The intervention (individualised early patient-directed rehabilitation) includes advice to the patient to remove their sling as soon as they feel able, gradually begin using their arm as they feel able and a specific exercise programme. Sling removal and movement is progressed by the patient over time according to agreed goals and within their own pain and tolerance. The comparator (standard rehabilitation) includes advice to the patient to wear the sling for at least 4 weeks and only to remove while eating, washing, dressing or performing specific exercises. Progression is according to specific timeframes rather than as the patient feels able. The primary outcome measure is the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index total score at 12-week postrandomisation. The trial timeline is 56 months in total, from September 2022.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN11499185.
Evaluating patient factors, operative management and postoperative outcomes in trauma laparotomy patients worldwide: a protocol for a global observational multicentre trauma study
Authors: Bath Michael F , Kohler Katharina , Hobbs Laura , Smith Brandon George , Clark David J , Kwizera Arthur , Perkins Zane , Marsden Max , Davenport Ross , Davies Justin , Amoako Joachim , Moonesinghe Ramani , Weiser Thomas , Leather Andy J M , Hardcastle Timothy , Naidoo Ravi , Nördin Yannick , Conway Morris Andrew , Lakhoo Kokila , Hutchinson Peter John , Bashford Tom
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Trauma contributes to the greatest loss of disability-adjusted life-years for adolescents and young adults worldwide. In the context of global abdominal trauma, the trauma laparotomy is the most commonly performed operation. Variation likely exists in how these patients are managed and their subsequent outcomes, yet very little global data on the topic currently exists. The objective of the GOAL-Trauma study is to evaluate both patient and injury factors for those undergoing trauma laparotomy, their clinical management and postoperative outcomes.

Methods

We describe a planned prospective multicentre observational cohort study of patients undergoing trauma laparotomy. We will include patients of all ages who present to hospital with a blunt or penetrating injury and undergo a trauma laparotomy within 5 days of presentation to the treating centre. The study will collect system, patient, process and outcome data, following patients up until 30 days postoperatively (or until discharge or death, whichever is first). Our sample size calculation suggests we will need to recruit 552 patients from approximately 150 recruiting centres.

Discussion

The GOAL-Trauma study will provide a global snapshot of the current management and outcomes for patients undergoing a trauma laparotomy. It will also provide insight into the variation seen in the time delays for receiving care, the disease and patient factors present, and patient outcomes. For current standards of trauma care to be improved worldwide, a greater understanding of the current state of trauma laparotomy care is paramount if appropriate interventions and targets are to be identified and implemented.
Unveiling the truth: is COVID-19 reimbursement in Colombia a flawed design? A cost-of-illness analysis for moderate, severe and critical infections
Authors: Fernandez-Trujillo Liliana , Sangiovanni Saveria , Castrillon Ana Isabel , Hincapie-Zapata Lina , Góez-Mogollón Lina Maria , Brun Vergara Marcela , Prada Sergio I
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study examines the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Colombian Health System, focusing on the adequacy of reimbursement rates for inpatient stays. The study, based on a cost of illness analysis, aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the reimbursement scheme and identify potential economic losses within the health system.

Patients and methods

The study protocol outlines the inclusion criteria for patients >18 years with confirmed COVID-19 infection and moderate to critical disease. Patients hospitalised between June 2020 and June 2021 for at least 24 hours were included. Exclusion criteria involved pregnant patients and those initially hospitalised for non-COVID-19.

Results

The study included 781 patients contributing to 790 hospitalisations. Demographic and clinical characteristics were analysed, with critical illness being the most prevalent category (61%). The overall mortality rate was 20.3%, primarily observed in critically ill patients. In the general ward for moderate cases, the reimbursement rate saw a substantial increase from US$3237 in 2020 to US$6760 in 2021, surpassing median resource utilisation. However, for severe cases in the intermediate care unit, reimbursement rates decreased, indicating potential insufficiency in covering costs. In the intensive care unit for critical cases, despite improved reimbursement rates, median resource utilisation still exceeds the 2021 rate, suggesting financial insufficiency in reimbursement rates.

Conclusion

Our study underscores the inadequacies of the previous reimbursement system in addressing the varying resource utilisation and costs associated with COVID-19 inpatient care. Our analysis reveals substantial discrepancies between estimated costs and actual resource utilisation, particularly for severe and critical cases. We advocate for government flexibility in revising reimbursement baskets, supported by pilot studies to assess effectiveness. The use of real-world evidence forms a crucial basis for informed adjustments to reimbursement levels in preparation for future pandemics. This proactive approach ensures alignment between reimbursement policies and the actual costs associated.
Prognostic models and factors identifying end-of-life in non-cancer chronic diseases: a systematic review
Authors: Gebresillassie Begashaw Melaku , Attia John Richard , Mersha Amanual Getnet , Harris Melissa L
Published: April 2024

Background

Precise prognostic information, if available, is very helpful for guiding treatment decisions and resource allocation in patients with non-cancer non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). This study aimed to systematically review the existing evidence, examining prognostic models and factors for identifying end-of-life non-cancer NCD patients.

Methods

Electronic databases, including Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PsychINFO and other sources, were searched from the inception of these databases up until June 2023. Studies published in English with findings mentioning prognostic models or factors related to identifying end-of-life in non-cancer NCD patients were included. The quality of studies was assessed using the Quality in Prognosis Studies tool.

Results

The analysis included data from 41 studies, with 16 focusing on chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), 10 on dementia, 6 on heart failure and 9 on mixed NCDs. Traditional statistical modelling was predominantly used for the identified prognostic models. Common predictors in COPD models included dyspnoea, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, functional status, exacerbation history and body mass index. Models for dementia and heart failure frequently included comorbidity, age, gender, blood tests and nutritional status. Similarly, mixed NCD models commonly included functional status, age, dyspnoea, the presence of skin pressure ulcers, oral intake and level of consciousness. The identified prognostic models exhibited varying predictive accuracy, with the majority demonstrating weak to moderate discriminatory performance (area under the curve: 0.5–0.8). Additionally, most of these models lacked independent external validation, and only a few underwent internal validation.

Conclusion

Our review summarised the most relevant predictors for identifying end-of-life in non-cancer NCDs. However, the predictive accuracy of identified models was generally inconsistent and low, and lacked external validation. Although efforts to improve these prognostic models should continue, clinicians should recognise the possibility that disease heterogeneity may limit the utility of these models for individual prognostication; they may be more useful for population level health planning.
The effects of pre-harvest glyphosate rate and timing on yield and pre-malt quality of malting barley
Authors: O'Donovan John T. , Kubota Hiroshi , Harker K. Neil , Turkington T. Kelly , May William , Johnson Eric N. , Beres Brian , Izydorczyk Marta , Oatway Lori , de Gooijer Henry , Mulenga Alick , Schwinghamer Timothy , Tidemann Breanne D.
Published: April 2024

The production of barley cultivars with malting and brewing quality characteristics is subject to strict grading and technical standards for the end-use market. Environmental and management factors can significantly alter grain quality, and the qualities required for malting. Crop and kernel uniformity are critical factors where variability can exceed the tolerance for meeting malt quality. A practice to address variations in crop maturity is the application of pre-harvest glyphosate. Pre-harvest glyphosate applications can, however, alter malting characteristics in barley, and, if mis-timed, can also reduce yield. A 4-year study at five locations in Alberta and Saskatchewan from 2013 to 2017 was conducted to determine the effects of pre-harvest glyphosate applications on malting barley characteristics. Glyphosate was applied at 900 and 1125 g ae ha−1 on malting barley cultivars ‘CDC Meredith’ and ‘AC Metcalfe’ malting barley at soft dough, hard dough, and physiological maturity growth stages. Yield reductions of up to 12% were observed from glyphosate applications at soft dough, and yield was maximized with applications at physiological maturity. Glyphosate application, at two rates, reduced percentage plump kernels, but did not affect kernel weight or protein concentration. The growth stage of barley plants did not provide an accurate indicator of seed moisture levels at the time of application, which motivated our conclusion that glyphosate applications can be mistimed by inaccurate indicators. The results motivate our questioning of the utility of pre-harvest glyphosate applications, given the adverse effects to barley yield and quality observed, even when applied according to the label instructions.
STOCK MARKET REACTIONS TO PUBLIC RELEASE OF ENVIRONMENTAL RANKINGS OF HEAVY POLLUTERS: THE ROLE OF ULTIMATE CONTROLLERS
Authors: XU HUA , DENG XIN , SHEN JIE
Published: April 2024

Adopting the event study method, this paper examines how the stock market reacts to the public release of environmental performance rankings of heavy polluters. Specifically, we explore the impact of the public release of the 100 best and 100 worst companies in terms of environmental performance on the stock prices of companies involved, and the potential moderation of ultimate controllers. We find that the stock prices of the companies on the lists were negatively affected by the event. However, stock price changes are not significantly related to the relative rankings on the list. Furthermore, companies whose ultimate controllers possess a larger control–ownership wedge experienced a less severe fall in stock prices than did their counterparts. This study sheds light on the nuances of the financial implications of negative environmental publicity.
General perturbations in D+1 standard and brane cosmology revisited
Authors: Delfín Zoé , Cordero Rubén , Matos Tonatiuh , García-Aspeitia Miguel A.
Published: April 2024

In this work, we generalize the theory of perturbations in a ([Formula: see text])-dimensional space–time with cosmological constant, studying scalar, vector and tensor perturbations, as well as its structure in Newtonian and Synchronous gauge. We also show the theory of perturbations in the context of brane cosmology, where branes are embedded in a set of D-spatial dimensions, a temporal dimension, and an additional spatial dimension. In both standard and brane cosmology, an unperturbed space–time is provided with a Friedmann–Lemaitre–Robertson–Walker metric and arbitrary sectional curvature, the matter content has the shape of a perfect fluid. In addition, we consider the arbitrary sectional curvature, obtaining the respective equations in the Newtonian and Synchronous gauge. We highlight that the results presented in this paper can be used to treat brane cosmology with two concentric branes or tackle the [Formula: see text] tension with a braneworld approach. Finally, as an example of the utility of all the technology presented in this paper, we show an application to the energy flux and the repercussions in the framework of the braneworlds.
Laser ablation synthesis of BiOCl/Ag/WO3 nanocomposite to evaluate its photocatalysis performance
Authors: Lin Kai-Siang , Furube Akihiro , Katayama Testuro , Koinkar Pankaj , Wu Chang Mou
Published: April 2024

Bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl)/silver (Ag)/tungsten oxide (WO3) nanocomposite was produced by laser ablation to enhance photocatalytic performance. The ternary nanocomposite showed a superior photocatalytic activity for methylene blue (MB) degradation under visible light compared to pure BiOCl and BiOCl/Ag with degradation up to 74%, 62%, and 52 %, respectively. The addition of Ag improved the dispersibility of BiOCl and WO3, which reduced the recombination of electron–hole pairs and can be responsible for higher photocatalytic activity.
The role of graphene in SnS2@Graphene for rechargeable lithium batteries: A view from the electronic structure
Authors: Hao Jialei , Tang Dejun , Yang Xinhe , Gao Qian , Hu Zhenpeng
Published: April 2024

Based on the first-principles study, the adsorption and electron transfer properties of Li atom at different sites of SnS2 monolayer, SnS2@Graphene 2D-nanocomposite are analyzed. The differential charge density and density of states (DOS) analysis show that the graphene substrate as an electron donor can change the 2D-nanocomposite from a semiconductor to a metal, and reduce the adsorption energy of Li atom by decreasing the charge transferring from Li atom to SnS2. This indicates that graphene substrate is beneficial for improving the performance of SnS2@Graphene. Meanwhile, the Li atoms tend not to cluster on the SnS2@Graphene 2D-nanocomposite, which is useful to prolong the lifespan of the SnS2@Graphene. The functionality of graphene in SnS2@Graphene 2D-nanocomposite is proved by other electron donor substrates, such as a two-H-atom model and a Sn (111) substrate model. All the results indicate that the graphene, as an electron donor in SnS2@Graphene 2D-nanocomposite, plays a key role in improving the performance of SnS2 in rechargeable lithium batteries.
Numerical simulation of the residual stress of solid oxide fuel cells with a three-dimensional nonplanar cathode–electrolyte interface
Authors: Xue Dingxi , Du Yufeng , Huo Chaoxia , Yi Bingyao , Li Guojun , Liu Keqin
Published: April 2024

The longevity of solid oxide fuel cells is influenced by internal residual stresses, which may induce deformation or fracturing of components. This study investigates the residual stress distribution at the nonplanar cathode–electrolyte interface by approximating the actual interface with trigonometric functions and developing a three-dimensional (3D) model. The model reveals that the stress patterns at nonplanar interfaces can elucidate the genesis of interfacial cracks. During fabrication, anode contraction results in compressive stress within the electrolyte and tensile stress within the anode, with thermal discrepancies between layers being the primary cause of residual stresses. The reduction process diminishes these stresses, thus enhancing the mechanical integrity of the cell. Mitigating interface nonplanarity is beneficial for minimizing residual stress. At each interface crest, the electrolyte exhibits a local minimum in compressive stress, and a local maximum in shear stress occurs between each crest and trough. Furthermore, decreasing the initial porosity and NiO volume fraction can slightly lessen interlayer thermal discrepancies, with little effect on residual stresses.
A Dual Relaxation Method for Neural Network Verification
Authors: Xiong Huanzhang , Hou Gang , Qin Yueyuan , Wang Jie , Kong Weiqiang
Published: April 2024

In the robustness verification of neural networks, formal methods have been used to give deterministic guarantees for neural networks. However, recent studies have found that the verification method of single-neuron relaxation in this field has an inherent convex barrier that affects its verification capability. To address this problem, we propose a new verification method by combining dual-neuron relaxation and linear programming. This method captures the dependencies between different neurons in the same hidden layer by adding a two-neuron joint constraint to the linear programming model, thus overcoming the convex barrier problem caused by relaxation for only a single neuron. Our method avoids the combination of exponential inequality constraints and can be computed in polynomial time. Experimental results show that we can obtain tighter bounds and achieve more accurate verification than single-neuron relaxation methods.