bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain activation associated with low‐ and high‐intensity concentric versus eccentric isokinetic contractions of the biceps brachii: An fNIRS study
Authors: Teo Wei‐Peng , Tan Clara Xinru , Goodwill Alicia M. , Mohammad Saqif , Ang Yi‐Xuan , Latella Christopher
Published: September 2023

Studies have shown that neural responses following concentric (CON) and eccentric (ECC) muscle contractions are different, which suggests differences in motor control associated with CON and ECC contractions. This study aims to determine brain activation of the left primary motor cortex (M1) and left and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortices (DLPFCs) during ECC and CON of the right bicep brachii (BB) muscle at low‐ and high‐contraction intensities. Eighteen young adults (13M/5F, 21–35 years) were recruited to participate in one familiarization and two testing sessions in a randomized crossover design. During each testing session, participants performed either ECC or CON contractions of the BB (3 sets × 8 reps) at low‐ (25% of maximum ECC/CON, 45°/s) and high‐intensity (75% of maximum ECC/CON, 45°/s) on an isokinetic dynamometer. Eleven‐channel functional near‐infrared spectroscopy was used to measure changes in oxyhemoglobin (O2Hb) from the left M1, and left and right DLPFC during ECC and CON contractions. Maximum torque for ECC was higher than CON (43.3 ± 14.1 vs. 46.2 ± 15.7 N m, p = 0.025); however, no differences in O2Hb were observed between contraction types at low or high intensities in measured brain regions. High‐intensity ECC and CON contractions resulted in greater increases in O2Hb of M1 and bilateral DLPFC compared to low‐intensity ECC and CON contractions (p = 0.014). Our findings suggest no differences in O2Hb responses between contraction types at high and low intensities. High‐contraction intensities resulted in greater brain activation of the M1 and bilateral DLPFC, which may have implications for neurorehabilitation to increase central adaptations from exercise.
Are software automation and teleworker substitutes? Preliminary evidence from Japan
Authors: Baldwin Richard , Okubo Toshihiro
Published: September 2023

Digital technology is reshaping workplaces by enabling spatial separation of offices, known as telework, or remote intelligence (RI) and by facilitating automation of service sector tasks via artificial intelligence (AI). This paper is the first attempt to empirically investigate whether AI and RI are complements or substitutes in the service sector. It uses a worker‐level panel of surveys collected from around 10,000 workers from pre‐COVID‐19 pandemic to late 2022. We find preliminary evidence that suggests that AI and RI are complements rather than substitutes. The evidence comes first from the positive correlation of investments in AI‐promoting and RI‐promoting software at the firm and worker level, and second from the positive correlation of workers' expectations regarding telework and software automation. The evidence is far from definitive but suggests that the complement‐substitution question is a fruitful line for future research.
Exercise breaks prevent attenuation in cerebrovascular function following an acute bout of uninterrupted sitting in healthy children
Authors: Tallon Christine M. , Nowak‐Flück Daniela , Reiger Mathew G. , Green Daniel J. , Tremblay Mark S. , Ainslie Phil N. , McManus Ali M.
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of an acute bout of prolonged sitting with and without exercise breaks on cerebrovascular function in 7‐ to 13‐year‐old children. Forty‐two children and adolescents were recruited to a crossover trial, with 15 girls (mean age 10.1 ± 2.5 years) and 16 boys (mean age 10.5 ± 1.3 years) completing the two trial conditions: SIT, uninterrupted sitting for 3 h and CYCLE, 3 h of sitting interrupted hourly with a 10‐min moderate intensity exercise break. Cerebrovascular function was measured Pre and Post SIT and CYCLE from blood flow (), diameter, and shear rate of the internal carotid artery (ICA) at rest and in response to CO2. Blood velocity in the middle (MCA) and posterior (PCA) cerebral arteries was assessed at rest, during a neurovascular coupling task (NVC) and in response to CO2. We demonstrate that SIT but not CYCLE reduced ICA cerebrovascular reactivity to CO2 (%Δ ICA /Δ end‐tidal CO2: SIT: Pre 5.0 ± 2.4%/mmHg to Post 3.3 ± 2.8%/mmHg vs. CYCLE: Pre 4.4 ± 2.3%/mmHg to Post 5.3 ± 3.4%/mmHg, P = 0.05) and slowed the MCA blood velocity onset response time to hypercapnia (SIT: Pre 57.2 ± 32.6 s to Post 76.6 ± 55.2 s, vs. CYCLE: Pre 64.1 ± 40.4 s to Post 52.3 ± 28.8 s, P = 0.05). There were no changes in NVC. Importantly, breaking up prolonged sitting with hourly exercise breaks prevented the reductions in cerebrovascular reactivity to CO2 and the slowed intracranial blood velocity onset response time to hypercapnia apparent with uninterrupted sitting in children.
Temporal optimization of exercise to lower fasting glucose levels
Authors: Kanaley Jill A. , Porter J. W. , Winn N. C. , Lastra G. , Chockalingam A. , Pettit‐Mee R. J. , Petroski G. F. , Cobelli C. , Schiavon M. , Parks E. J.
Published: September 2023

Exercise stimulates glucose uptake and increases insulin sensitivity acutely. Temporally optimizing exercise timing may minimize the nocturnal rise in glucose levels. This study examined the effect of exercise timing on evening and overnight glucose concentrations in individuals who were non‐obese with normal fasting glucose levels (Non‐Ob; n = 18) and individuals with obesity (OB) with impaired fasting glucose levels (OB+IFG) and without (n = 16 and n = 18, respectively). Subjects were studied on three occasions (no exercise (NOEX)), morning exercise (AMEX; 0700 h) and evening exercise (PMEX; 2000 h). The evening meal was provided (1800 h) and blood samples were taken from 1740 to 0700 h and morning endogenous glucose production (EGP) was measured. Glucose and insulin concentrations increased with the dinner meal with peak concentrations being higher in OB+IFG than in OB and Non‐Ob (P = 0.04). In OB+IFG, evening glucose concentrations rose above baseline levels at about 2300 h, with the glucose concentrations staying somewhat lower with AMEX and PMEX until ∼0500 h than with NOEX. In OB+IFG, insulin concentrations decreased following the dinner meal and waned throughout the night, despite the rising glucose concentrations. In the OB and Non‐Ob individuals following the dinner meal, no increase in glucose concentrations occurred in the evening period and insulin levels mirrored this. No difference was observed in the morning fasting glucose levels between study days or between groups. Regardless of time of day, exercise delays the evening rise in glucose concentrations in adults with OB+IFG but does not lower morning fasting glucose levels or improve the synchrony between glucose and insulin concentrations.

image

Key points

Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes have been linked to disturbances of the core clock, and glucose tolerance demonstrates a diurnal rhythm in healthy humans with better glucose tolerance in the morning than in the afternoon and evening.

Skeletal muscle is a primary site for insulin resistance in people with impaired glucose tolerance.

In individuals with obesity and impaired fasting glucose levels (OB+IFG), following a dinner meal, glucose concentrations started to rise and continues throughout the night, resulting in elevated glucose levels, while concomitantly, insulin levels are waning.

Exercise, regardless of the time of day, suppressed the rise in glucose levels in OB+IFG for many hours during the night but did not lower morning fasting glucose levels. Morning exercise was not quite as effective as evening exercise.
Complementarity and entanglement in a simple model of inelastic scattering
Authors: Kordahl David
Published: September 2023

A simple model coupling a one-dimensional beam particle to a one-dimensional harmonic oscillator is used to explore complementarity and entanglement. This model, well-known in the inelastic scattering literature, is presented under three different conceptual approaches, with both analytical and numerical techniques discussed for each. In a purely classical approach, the final amplitude of the oscillator can be found directly from the initial conditions. In a partially quantum approach, with a classical beam and a quantum oscillator, the final magnitude of the quantum-mechanical amplitude for the oscillator's first excited state is directly proportional to the oscillator's classical amplitude of vibration. Nearly the same first-order transition probabilities emerge in the partially and fully quantum approaches, but conceptual differences emerge. The two-particle scattering wavefunction clarifies these differences and allows the consequences of quantum entanglement to be explored.
Acceptable solutions of the radial Schrödinger equation for a particle in a central potential
Authors: Etxebarria J.
Published: September 2023

We revisit the discussion about the boundary condition at the origin in the Schrödinger radial equation for central potentials. We give a transparent and convincing reason for demanding the radial part R(r) of the wave function to be finite at r = 0, showing that if R(0) diverges the complete wave function ψ does not satisfy the full Schrödinger equation. If R(r) is singular, we show that the corresponding ψ follows an equation similar to Schrödinger's, but with an additional term involving the Dirac delta function or its derivatives at the origin. Although, in general, understanding some of our arguments requires certain knowledge of the theory of distributions, the important case of a behavior R ∝ 1/r near r = 0, which gives rise to a normalizable ψ, is especially simple: The origin of the Dirac delta term is clearly demonstrated by using a slight modification of the usual spherical coordinates. The argument can be easily followed by undergraduate physics students.
Solid-state batteries: The critical role of mechanics
Authors: Kalnaus Sergiy , Dudney Nancy J. , Westover Andrew S. , Herbert Erik , Hackney Steve
Published: September 2023

Solid-state batteries with lithium metal anodes have the potential for higher energy density, longer lifetime, wider operating temperature, and increased safety. Although the bulk of the research has focused on improving transport kinetics and electrochemical stability of the materials and interfaces, there are also critical challenges that require investigation of the mechanics of materials. In batteries with solid-solid interfaces, mechanical contacts, and the development of stresses during operation of the solid-state batteries, become as critical as the electrochemical stability to keep steady charge transfer at these interfaces. This review will focus on stress and strain that result from normal and extended battery cycling and the associated mechanisms for stress relief, some of which lead to failure of these batteries.
Structural basis for inactivation of PRC2 by G-quadruplex RNA
Authors: Song Jiarui , Gooding Anne R. , Hemphill Wayne O. , Love Brittney D. , Robertson Anne , Yao Liqi , Zon Leonard I. , North Trista E. , Kasinath Vignesh , Cech Thomas R.
Published: September 2023

Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) silences genes through trimethylation of histone H3K27. PRC2 associates with numerous precursor messenger RNAs (pre-mRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with a binding preference for G-quadruplex RNA. In this work, we present a 3.3-Å-resolution cryo–electron microscopy structure of PRC2 bound to a G-quadruplex RNA. Notably, RNA mediates the dimerization of PRC2 by binding both protomers and inducing a protein interface composed of two copies of the catalytic subunit EZH2, thereby blocking nucleosome DNA interaction and histone H3 tail accessibility. Furthermore, an RNA-binding loop of EZH2 facilitates the handoff between RNA and DNA, another activity implicated in PRC2 regulation by RNA. We identified a gain-of-function mutation in this loop that activates PRC2 in zebrafish. Our results reveal mechanisms for RNA-mediated regulation of a chromatin-modifying enzyme.
Disequilibrating azobenzenes by visible-light sensitization under confinement
Authors: Gemen Julius , Church Jonathan R. , Ruoko Tero-Petri , Durandin Nikita , Białek Michał J. , Weißenfels Maren , Feller Moran , Kazes Miri , Odaybat Magdalena , Borin Veniamin A. , Kalepu Rishir , Diskin-Posner Yael , Oron Dan , Fuchter Matthew J. , Priimagi Arri , Schapiro Igor , Klajn Rafal
Published: September 2023

Photoisomerization of azobenzenes from their stable
E
isomer to the metastable
Z
state is the basis of numerous applications of these molecules. However, this reaction typically requires ultraviolet light, which limits applicability. In this study, we introduce disequilibration by sensitization under confinement (DESC), a supramolecular approach to induce the
E
-to-
Z
isomerization by using light of a desired color, including red. DESC relies on a combination of a macrocyclic host and a photosensitizer, which act together to selectively bind and sensitize
E
-azobenzenes for isomerization. The
Z
isomer lacks strong affinity for and is expelled from the host, which can then convert additional
E-
azobenzenes to the
Z
state. In this way, the host–photosensitizer complex converts photon energy into chemical energy in the form of out-of-equilibrium photostationary states, including ones that cannot be accessed through direct photoexcitation.
In Other Journals
Authors: Seale Madeleine , Ash Caroline , Lempriere Sarah A. , Suleymanov Yury , Kelly Priscilla N. , Wible Brad , Grocholski Brent
Published: September 2023

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Ancient logs may represent oldest wood construction
Authors: Jacobs Phie
Published: September 2023

Half-million-year-old structure unearthed in Zambia may have been a platform, bridge, or house foundation
Acetylation of K188 and K192 inhibits the DNA-binding ability of NarL to regulate
Salmonella
virulence
Authors: Zhang Liu-Qing , Shen Yi-Lin , Ye Bang-Ce , Zhou Ying
Published: September 2023

Salmonella
infection significantly increases nitrate levels in the intestine, immune cells, and immune organs of the host, and it can exploit nitrate as an electron acceptor to enhance its growth. In the presence of nitrate or nitrite, NarL, a regulatory protein of the Nar two-component system, is activated and regulates a number of genes involved in nitrate metabolism. However, research on NarL at the post-translational level is limited. In this study, we demonstrate that the DNA-binding sites K188 and 192 of NarL can be acetylated by bacterial metabolite acetyl phosphate and that the degree of acetylation has a considerable influence on the regulatory function of NarL. Specifically, acetylation of NarL negatively regulates the transcription of
narG
,
narK,
and
napF
, which affects the utilization of nitrate in
Salmonella
. Besides, both cell and mouse models show that acetylated K188 and K192 result in attenuated replication in RAW 264.7 cells, as well as impaired virulence in mouse model. Together, this research identifies a novel NarL acetylation mechanism that regulates
Salmonella
virulence, providing a new insight and target for salmonellosis treatment.

IMPORTANCE

Salmonella
is an important intracellular pathogen that can cause limited gastroenteritis and self-limiting gastroenteritis in immunocompetent humans. Nitrate, the highest oxidation state form of nitrogen, is critical in the formation of systemic infection in
Salmonella
. It functions as a signaling molecule that influences
Salmonella
chemotaxis, in addition to acting as a reduced external electron acceptor for
Salmonella
anaerobic respiration. NarL is an essential regulatory protein involved in nitrate metabolism in
Salmonella
, and comprehending its regulatory mechanism is necessary. Previous research has linked NarL phosphorylation to the formation of its dimer, which is required for NarL to perform its regulatory functions. Our research demonstrated that acetylation also affects the regulatory function of NarL. We found that acetylation affects
Salmonella
pathogenicity by weakening the ability of NarL to bind to the target sequence, further refining the mechanism of the anaerobic nitrate respiration pathway.
A coating of lipoproteins provides a stabilizing environment on the inner membrane of
Bacillus subtilis
spores
Authors: Moir Anne , Christie Graham
Published: September 2023

A new study by M. J. Flores, K. Duricy, S. Choudhary, M. Laue, and D. L. Popham (J Bacteriol 205:e00142-23, 2023,
https://doi.org/10.1128/jb.00142-23
) demonstrates a role for the YlaJ/YhcN family of lipoproteins in the immobilization of the spore’s inner membrane. In the absence of these lipoproteins, membrane fluidity increases and membrane-associated proteins like the GerA receptor complexes are more exposed to inimical conditions. The role of these proteins in stabilizing the
Bacillus
spore inner membrane is now being explored.
Improved scientific knowledge of methanogenesis and methanotrophy needed to slow climate change during the next 30 years
Authors: Davidson Eric A. , Semrau Jeremy D. , Nguyen Nguyen K. ,   On behalf of Steering Committee and participants of the ASM/AGU Colloquium: The Roles of Microbes in Mediating Methane Emissions
Published: September 2023

Owing to the high radiative forcing and short atmospheric residence time of methane, abatement of methane emissions offers a crucial opportunity for effective, rapid slowing of climate change. Here, we report on a colloquium jointly sponsored by the American Society for Microbiology and the American Geophysical Union, where 35 national and international experts from academia, the private sector, and government met to review understanding of the microbial processes of methanogenesis and methanotrophy. The colloquium addressed how advanced knowledge of the microbiology of methane production and consumption could inform waste management, including landfills and composts, and three areas of agricultural management: enteric emissions from ruminant livestock, manure management, and rice cultivation. Support for both basic and applied research in microbiology and its applications is urgently needed to accelerate the realization of the large potential for these near-term solutions to counteract climate change.
Genome sequence of
Enterococcus gallinarum
AH4, a milk oligosaccharide-degrading strain isolated from suckling rats
Authors: Yamamoto Yuji , Suzuki Yasunori , Tsukuda Reo , Asai Chikara , Ishizuka Masaki , Tsujikawa Yuji , Sakane Iwao , Osawa Ro , Mukai Takao
Published: September 2023

We had previously isolated
Enterococcus gallinarum
AH4, a strain capable of degrading rat milk oligosaccharides. In this study, we determined the whole-genome sequence of AH4. This whole-genome information will expand our understanding of milk oligosaccharide-mediated symbioses between bacteria and host mammals.
Complete genome sequence of
Marinobacter shengliensis
D49 harboring
ectABC
genes for ectoine synthesis
Authors: Yasuda Shohei , Terada Akihiko
Published: September 2023

A complete genome sequence of
Marinobacter shengliensis
D49 in the class
Gamma-proteobacteria
was isolated from activated sludge treati

ng landfill leachate. The genome encodes the functional genes for the biosynthesis of ectoine (
ectABC
), a compatible solute for cosmetics. Deciphering the genome helps pave the way for ectoine production by the isolate.
Diversity profiling of soil bacterial and fungal communities in the Ogasawara (Bonin) Islands, Japan
Authors: Shigyo Nobuhiko , Shichi Koji , Sugai Kyoko , Setsuko Suzuki
Published: September 2023

Island biogeography research provides insight into microbial diversity patterns; however, little is known about the diversity and distribution of soil microbial communities on remote and poorly accessible islands. Here, we present amplicon sequencing data from bacterial and fungal communities in the surface soils of the Ogasawara (Bonin) Islands, Japan.
Complete genome sequence of Azrael100, a V cluster mycobacteriophage
Authors: Machowski Edith Erika , Ealand Christopher Shawn , Jacobs Olivia , Kana Bavesh Davandra
Published: September 2023

Azrael100, a cluster V siphoviral mycobacteriophage, was isolated from a garden in Johannesburg, South Africa. It can infect and lyse
Mycobacterium smegmatis
mc
2
155. The double-stranded DNA genome contains 78,063 base pairs with a GC content of 56.9%, with 141 predicted open reading frames, 23 tRNAs, and one tmRNA.
Ecological inducers of the yeast filamentous growth pathway reveal environment-dependent roles for pathway components
Authors: Vandermeulen Matthew D. , Cullen Paul J.
Published: September 2023

Signaling modules, such as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, are evolutionarily conserved drivers of cell differentiation and stress responses. In many fungal species including pathogens, MAPK pathways control filamentous growth, where cells differentiate into an elongated cell type. The convenient model budding yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
undergoes filamentous growth by the filamentous growth (fMAPK) pathway; however, the inducers of the pathway remain unclear, perhaps because pathway activity has been mainly studied in laboratory conditions. To address this knowledge gap, an ecological framework was used, which uncovered new fMAPK pathway inducers, including pectin, a material found in plants, and the metabolic byproduct ethanol. We also show that induction by a known inducer of the pathway, the non-preferred carbon source galactose, required galactose metabolism and induced the pathway differently than glucose limitation or other non-preferred carbon sources. By exploring fMAPK pathway function in fruit, we found that induction of the pathway led to visible digestion of fruit rind through a known target,
PGU1
, which encodes a pectolytic enzyme. Combinations of inducers (galactose and ethanol) stimulated the pathway to near-maximal levels, which showed dispensability of several fMAPK pathway components (e.g., mucin sensor, p21-activated kinase), but not others (e.g., adaptor, MAPKKK) and required the Ras2-protein kinase A pathway. This included a difference between the transcription factor binding partners for the pathway, as Tec1p, but not Ste12p, was partly dispensable for fMAPK pathway activity. Thus, by exploring ecologically relevant stimuli, new modes of MAPK pathway signaling were uncovered, perhaps revealing how a pathway can respond differently to specific environments.

IMPORTANCE

Filamentous growth is a cell differentiation response and important aspect of fungal biology. In plant and animal fungal pathogens, filamentous growth contributes to virulence. One signaling pathway that regulates filamentous growth is an evolutionarily conserved MAPK pathway. The yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
is a convenient model to study MAPK-dependent regulation of filamentous growth, although the inducers of the pathway are not clear. Here, we exposed yeast cells to ecologically relevant compounds (e.g., plant compounds), which identified new inducers of the MAPK pathway. In combination, the inducers activated the pathway to near-maximal levels but did not cause detrimental phenotypes associated with previously identified hyperactive alleles. This context allowed us to identify conditional bypass for multiple pathway components. Thus, near-maximal induction of a MAPK pathway by ecologically relevant inducers provides a powerful tool to assess cellular signaling during a fungal differentiation response.
Genetic diversity and characterization of rhinoviruses from Chinese clinical samples with a global perspective
Authors: Zhao Peng , Shao Nan , Dong Jie , Su Haoxiang , Sui Hongtao , Zhang Ting , Yang Fan
Published: September 2023

Rhinovirus (RV) is a significant pathogen causing upper and lower respiratory diseases and is one of the most prevalent human respiratory viruses. However, research on the genetic diversity and evolutionary dynamics of RVs in China and worldwide remains limited. To address this knowledge gap, we utilized Chinese clinical RV samples as a starting point and detected and reported 22 types, including A9, B3, and C13, in China for the first time. Among these, A67, A76, and A106 were also detected and reported in Asia for the first time, characterizing their genetic diversity. We also identified A110 as a novel type of RVA and reported its distinctive characteristics in phylogeny, secondary structure, and capsid protein structure. Furthermore, by mining, refining, and annotating RV sequence data available worldwide, four previously unreported novel types, B107, C58, C59, and C60, were identified, and their genetic diversity was revealed. Furthermore, we observed variations in the guanine-cytosine (GC) content among different serotypes and clades. Also of note was that, based on a complete and refined VP1 data set, the evolutionary dynamics of RV were analyzed systematically and on a large scale for the first time.

IMPORTANCE

Based on clinical samples collected in China, we detected and reported 22 types for the first time in China, as well as three types for the first time in Asia, and reported their genetic characteristics and diversity. We identified a novel type of Rhinovirus (RV), A110, highlighting its unique genetic features. We annotated the genomic structure and serotype of all the existing RV sequences in the database, and four novel RV types were identified and their genetic diversity reported. Combined with the sequence annotation, we constructed a complete VP1 data set of RV and conducted the first large-scale evolutionary dynamics analysis of RV. Based on a high-quality data set, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the guanine-cytosine (GC) content variations among serotypes of RVs. This study provides crucial theoretical support and valuable data for understanding RV’s genetic diversity and developing antiviral strategies.
Late orogenic high-temperature overprint in (ultra)high-pressure ([U]HP) metamorphic rocks of the North Qinling Orogen, Central China: Insights into the geodynamics of the exhumation of (U)HP metamorphic rocks
Authors: Li Xin , Liu Liang , Liao Xiaoying , Gai Yongsheng , Geng Guojian , Li Tong , Ma Tuo
Published: September 2023

Exhumed (ultra)high-pressure ([U]HP) metamorphic rocks are markers of paleo-subduction zones and can provide crucial implications for the geodynamic evolution of subduction-exhumation. A variety of (U)HP metamorphic rocks from many collisional orogens have commonly documented a low-pressure high-temperature overprint, which appears to indicate a pervasive geodynamic process behind (U)HP metamorphic rock exhumation. A good case study of garnet amphibolite and associated garnet-biotite gneiss with an unambiguous low-pressure high-temperature overprint in the Xixia-Xiaguan area of the North Qinling Orogen, central China, provides a significant opportunity to uncover this geodynamic process. A detailed study of petrography, mineral chemistry, and phase equilibria modeling suggests that the investigated garnet amphibolite and garnet-biotite gneiss have jointly experienced multistage exhumation processes with near-isothermal decompression from the (U)HP eclogite facies (26.8−29.0 kbar/740−775 °C) to the medium-pressure (MP) amphibolite facies (8.7−10.0 kbar/740−775 °C), subsequent remarkable near-isobaric heating to the low-pressure (LP) granulite facies (6.8−8.2 kbar/832−835 °C), followed by final decompression and cooling to the LP amphibolite facies (5.8−6.8 kbar/740−757 °C). U-Pb age dating of zircons from the garnet amphibolite and garnet-biotite gneiss yielded metamorphic ages of ca. 500 Ma, 450 Ma, and 400 Ma, which we consider to represent (U)HP eclogite-facies, LP granulite-facies, and late LP amphibolite-facies metamorphism, respectively. According to the regional geology and the metamorphic history we have determined, this multistage exhumation process of two-step exhumation stages delimited by a phase of LP near-isobaric heating was associated with slab rollback. Accordingly, we propose a tectonic model of exhumation driven by slab rollback for the geodynamic evolution of (U)HP metamorphic rock exhumation in the North Qinling Orogen. Additionally, a combination of previous studies and our new results suggests that exhumation driven by slab rollback appears to be a fundamental mechanism for the (U)HP metamorphic rock exhumation within collisional orogens.
Oceanic serpentinites: A potentially critical reservoir for deep nitrogen recycling
Authors: Li Kan , Yu Amber Jie , Barry Peter H. , Li Long
Published: September 2023

Serpentinized oceanic peridotites might be an important reservoir delivering volatile elements including nitrogen (N) into the mantle via subduction. To determine N sources and estimate the budget of alteration-added secondary N in the oceanic mantle peridotite reservoir, we examined oceanic serpentinites from four Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) sites in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Our results showed that, despite large variation in serpentinization condition (high temperatures up to >350 °C at Holes 895D, 1271B, and 920D; low temperatures <150 °C at Hole 1274A), serpentinites from all sites displayed ubiquitous and similar magnitude of N enrichment (3.2–18.6 ppm) from sediments/seawater sources (δ15N = –3.3‰ to +4.4‰), and these values were significantly elevated relative to the low N concentration (0.04–2.0 ppm) and δ15N value (−5‰ ± 2‰) of the depleted mantle. Based on these data, the serpentinized oceanic mantle is estimated to contribute 0.4 ± 0.2–14.7 ± 6.9 × 109 mol N annually to global subduction zones. Although this flux is smaller than that of subducting sediments (57 × 109 mol·yr–1), comparison between oceanic serpentinites and meta-serpentinites from subduction zones suggests that N can be effectively retained in serpentinites during prograde metamorphism. This implies that the serpentinized slab mantle could be a critical reservoir to deliver N enriched in 15N to the mantle (at least 70 km depth) and potentially to the deepest portions of the mantle sampled by deep-rooted mantle plumes.
Trends and patterns of violence-related mortality in Nigeria: evidence from a 16-year analysis of secondary data
Authors: Ukoji Vitalis U , Ukoji Vitus N
Published: September 2023

Background

Nigeria is one of the most terrorised countries due to terrorist attacks and violent clashes. There have been many fatalities resulting from this violence, which started in the late 1960s and has significantly increased recently. Violence in Nigeria has been studied, but not about Nigeria’s mortality experience over time. This study described the patterns and trends of deaths related to violence in Nigeria over 16 years.

Methods

Secondary data on lethal violence across Nigeria spanning from 2006 to 2021 were drawn from the Nigeria Watch database, an online database of lethal violence in Nigeria. Univariate analysis of the data was conducted to map the trends, patterns and sources of lethal violence across Nigeria.

Results

Nigeria recorded no fewer than 169 033 violent deaths between 2006 and 2021, with 2014 reporting the highest number (22, 873) and Borno State being the most affected, followed by Lagos, Kaduna, Zamfara, Plateau, Delta, Benue, Rivers and Adamawa. The highest number of deaths (51, 425) was attributed to crime, followed by insurgency (50, 252) and road crashes (27, 645). Other significant causes of death were political issues (8, 324) and cattle grazing (5, 501).

Conclusion

Violence-related mortality is prevalent in Nigeria and significantly contributes to adult mortality. The government must develop strategies to identify, intervene in and end high-risk conflict situations to stop the growing contribution of violence to Nigeria’s mortality experience.
How should institutions help clinicians to practise greener anaesthesia: first-order and second-order responsibilities to practice sustainably
Authors: Parker Joshua , Hodson Nathan , Young Paul , Shelton Clifford
Published: September 2023

There is a need for all industries, including healthcare, to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. In anaesthetic practice, this not only requires a reduction in resource use and waste, but also a shift away from inhaled anaesthetic gases and towards alternatives with a lower carbon footprint. As inhalational anaesthesia produces greenhouse gas emissions at the point of use, achieving sustainable anaesthetic practice involves individual practitioner behaviour change. However, changing the practice of healthcare professionals raises potential ethical issues. The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, we discuss what moral duties anaesthetic practitioners have when it comes to practices that impact the environment. We argue that behaviour change among practitioners to align with certain moral responsibilities must be supplemented with an account of institutional duties to support this. In other words, we argue that institutions and those in power have second-order responsibilities to ensure that practitioners can fulfil their first-order responsibilities to practice more sustainably. The second goal of the paper is to consider not just the nature of second-order responsibilities but the content. We assess four different ways that second-order responsibilities might be fulfilled within healthcare systems: removing certain anaesthetic agents, seeking consensus, education and methods from behavioural economics. We argue that, while each of these are a necessary part of the picture, some interventions like nudges have considerable advantages.
Weill-Marchesani syndrome: natural history and genotype-phenotype correlations from 18 news cases and review of literature
Authors: Marzin Pauline , Rondeau Sophie , Alessandri Jean-Luc , Dieterich Klaus , le Goff Carine , Mahaut Clémentine , Mercier Sandra , Michot Caroline , Moldovan Oana , Miolo Gianmaria , Rossi Massimiliano , Van-Gils Julien , Francannet Christine , Robert Matthieu P , Jaïs Jean-Philippe , Huber Céline , Cormier-Daire Valerie
Published: September 2023

Background

Weill-Marchesani syndrome (WMS) belongs to the group of acromelic dysplasias, defined by short stature, brachydactyly and joint limitations. WMS is characterised by specific ophthalmological abnormalities, although cardiovascular defects have also been reported. Monoallelic variations inFBN1are associated with a dominant form of WMS, while biallelic variations inADAMTS10,ADAMTS17andLTBP2are responsible for a recessive form of WMS.

Objective

Natural history description of WMS and genotype-phenotype correlation establishment.

Materials and methods

Retrospective multicentre study and literature review. Inclusion criteria: clinical diagnosis of WMS with identified pathogenic variants.

Results

61 patients were included: 18 individuals from our cohort and 43 patients from literature. 21 had variants inADAMTS17, 19 inFBN1, 19 inADAMTS10and 2 inLTBP2. All individuals presented with eye anomalies, mainly spherophakia (42/61) and ectopia lentis (39/61). Short stature was present in 73% (from −2.2 to −5.5 SD), 10/61 individuals had valvulopathy. RegardingFBN1variants, patients with a variant located in transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-binding protein-like domain 5 (TB5) domain were significantly smaller than patients withFBN1variant outside TB5 domain (p=0.0040).

Conclusion

Apart from the ophthalmological findings, which are mandatory for the diagnosis, the phenotype of WMS seems to be more variable than initially described, partially explained by genotype-phenotype correlation.
RecessiveMECRpathogenic variants cause an LHON-like optic neuropathy
Authors: Fiorini Claudio , Degiorgi Andrea , Cascavilla Maria Lucia , Tropeano Concetta Valentina , La Morgia Chiara , Battista Marco , Ormanbekova Danara , Palombo Flavia , Carbonelli Michele , Bandello Francesco , Carelli Valerio , Maresca Alessandra , Barboni Piero , Baruffini Enrico , Caporali Leonardo
Published: September 2023

Background

Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a mitochondrial disorder characterised by complex I defect leading to sudden degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. Although typically associated with pathogenic variants in mitochondrial DNA, LHON was recently described in patients carrying biallelic variants in nuclear genesDNAJC30,NDUFS2andMCAT. MCAT is part of mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis (mtFAS), as also MECR, the mitochondrial trans-2-enoyl-CoA reductase.MECRmutations lead to a recessive childhood-onset syndromic disorder with dystonia, optic atrophy and basal ganglia abnormalities.

Methods

We studied through whole exome sequencing two sisters affected by sudden and painless visual loss at young age, with partial recovery and persistent central scotoma. We modelled the candidate variant in yeast and studied mitochondrial dysfunction in yeast and fibroblasts. We tested protein lipoylation and cell response to oxidative stress in yeast.

Results

Both sisters carried a homozygous pathogenic variant inMECR(p.Arg258Trp). In yeast, the MECR-R258W mutant showed an impaired oxidative growth, 30% reduction in oxygen consumption rate and 80% decrease in protein levels, pointing to structure destabilisation. Fibroblasts confirmed the reduced amount of MECR protein, but failed to reproduce the OXPHOS defect. Respiratory complexes assembly was normal. Finally, the yeast mutant lacked lipoylation of key metabolic enzymes and was more sensitive to H2O2treatment. Lipoic Acid supplementation partially rescued the growth defect.

Conclusion

We report the first family with homozygous MECR variant causing an LHON-like optic neuropathy, which pairs the recent MCAT findings, reinforcing the impairment of mtFAS as novel pathogenic mechanism in LHON.
Estimating the weight of consumed tobacco product waste in various Indian states: a novel method to assess the potential burden of tobacco product waste
Authors: Jain Yogesh Kumar , Bhardwaj Pankaj , Joshi Nitin Kumar , Singh Prashant Kumar , Lal Pranay , Kapoor Shivam , Gupta Manoj Kumar , Goel Akhil Dhanesh , Sharma Prem Prakash , Singh Shalini
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The direct morbidity and mortality caused by tobacco are well documented, but such products also contribute to a range of environmental pollutants resulting from tobacco product waste. No previous studies have yet quantified tobacco product waste in a low-income and middle-income country (LMIC). This study estimates the potential annual waste generated due to consumption of smoked and smokeless tobacco products in India and its states.

Methodology

We systematically collected samples of smoked and smokeless tobacco products from 33 districts of 17 Indian states/union territories. Stratified weights of plastic, paper, foil and filter packaging components, and gross empty package weights were recorded. Prevalence of smoking and smokeless tobacco use at national and state-level estimates was derived from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (2016–2017) to quantify waste potentially generated by tobacco products.

Results

We included 222 brands of tobacco products (70 cigarette, 94 bidi and 58 smokeless tobacco brands) in the final analysis. A total of 170 331 (±29 332) tonnes of waste was estimated to be generated annually, out of which 43.2% was plastic, 3.6% was foil and 0.8% was filter. Two-thirds of the overall waste was contributed by smokeless products alone. Maximum waste was generated in Uttar Pradesh (20.9%; 35 723.7±6151.6 tonnes), Maharashtra (8.9%; 15 116.84±2603.12 tonnes) and West Bengal (8.6%; 14 636.32±2520.37 tonnes).

Conclusion

This study provides first of its kind national-level evidence on the types (plastic, paper, foil and filter) and quantity of waste potentially generated by use of tobacco products in India. Similar studies from other LMICs can serve to raise consciousness about many negative environmental impacts of tobacco products and need for policies to address them.
Correction: numerical implementation and application of an internal state variable model to analyze the time-dependent behavior of mining excavations in rock salt
Authors: Aubertin Jonathan D. , Aubertin Michel , Jahanbakhshzadeh Abtin
Published: September 2023

Résumé

Le comportement géomécanique du sel gemme a été largement étudié au fil des ans. Les différentes études expérimentales ont permis d'identifier des caractéristiques distinctives associées à une réponse inélastique non-linéaire qui est fonction du temps et de l'historique de chargement. Ces caractéristiques doivent être reproduites par les équations constitutives utilisées pour analyser la réponse du sel gemme autour des ouvertures souterraines. Dans cet article, un modèle constitutif relativement simple est introduit dans le code numérique FLAC et appliqué pour analyser le comportement différé d'excavations dans des mines de sel. Le modèle unifié en fluage et plasticité comprend une variable d“état interne avec une loi d”évolution qui induit un écrouissage progressif jusqu'à ce qu“un état stationnaire soit atteint. Des analyses numériques sont effectuées avec le modèle ISV-SH pour évaluer les paramètres du matériau et simuler la réponse d”une ouverture circulaire et d'excavations minières rectangulaires créées séquentiellement. Les résultats sont présentés et comparés à ceux obtenus avec l“équation bien connue de la loi de puissance de Norton, couramment utilisée dans l”ingénierie des mines de sel. Les résultats des calculs, présentés en termes de l’évolution des contraintes, des déformations et de vitesses de déformation, illustrent certains des aspects clés du comportement du sel gemme et ils mettent en évidence l“influence majeure de la loi de comportement utilisée pour les analyses numériques. L”approche de simulation proposée ici constitue une alternative pratique et flexible aux outils de modélisation basés sur le fluage stationnaire, souvent utilisés pour l“analyse des ouvertures souterraines dans les opérations d”extraction de sel gemme.1 Ceci est une traduction fournie par l'auteur du résumé en anglais.
On the strong local potential limit
Authors: Murulane K. , Karataglidis S. , Giraud B. G.
Published: September 2023

Finite, bound, many-body systems, where the interaction operator, [Formula: see text], is local and happens to strongly dominate the kinetic energy operator, [Formula: see text], display a classical limit from diagonalizing [Formula: see text] alone, hence a clear picture of interparticle correlations, such as steric blocking emerges. This limit exhibits intrinsic symmetries and also fluctuations from mass formulae. This work investigates how such emergent symmetries and fluctuations might be extrapolated to physical situations where [Formula: see text] is reinstated.
Column cyclic rank metric codes and linear complementary dual rank metric codes
Authors: de la Cruz Javier , Özbudak Ferruh
Published: September 2023

We introduce and study column cyclic rank metric (CCRM) codes over finite fields. We present natural questions for the existence and characterization of CCRM codes. We completely solve these questions only in the first nontrivial case: The case of the minimum rank distance [Formula: see text] and the number of rows [Formula: see text]. We also consider linear complementary dual rank metric (LCDRM) codes both in the setting of CCRM codes and in the general setting of rank metric codes. We also ask the natural questions for the existence and characterization of CCRM codes in the subclass of LCDRM codes. We also completely solve these questions for this subclass of LCDRM codes only in the first nontrivial case that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Moreover we extend a characterization of linear complementary dual (LCD) codes of Massey to arbitrary rank metric codes in the general setting.
On the existence of non-catastrophic p-encoders of (2,1) convolutional codes over ℤp2
Authors: Napp Diego , Pinto Raquel , Rocha Conceição
Published: September 2023

In this work, we analyze the problem of catastrophicity of encoders of convolutional codes over the Laurent series with coefficients in [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. Kuijper and Pinto proved in [M. Kuijper and R. Pinto, On minimality of convolutional ring encoders, IEEE Trans. Autom. Control 55(11) (2009) 4890–4897] that, contrary to what happens for codes over [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a field, when dealing with [Formula: see text] there are convolutional codes that do not admit non-catastrophic encoders. Nevertheless it was conjectured that any catastrophic convolutional code admits another type of non-catastrophic encoder called [Formula: see text]-encoder. In this paper we solve this conjecture for a class of [Formula: see text] convolutional codes over [Formula: see text] and show that, in fact, these codes always admit a non-catastrophic p-encoder. We also describe a constructive procedure that allows us to obtain a non-catastrophic [Formula: see text]-encoder.
Generalized column weights and equivalences of convolutional codes
Authors: Gorla Elisa , Salizzoni Flavio
Published: September 2023

We revisit the notion of [Formula: see text]th generalized column weights for the [Formula: see text]-truncation of a convolutional code. Taking the limit as [Formula: see text] tends to infinity, we define [Formula: see text]th generalized column weights of a convolutional code. We introduce suitable notions of [Formula: see text]-equivalence and equivalence, with respect to which generalized column weights are code invariants. We establish some properties of these invariants and compare them with other definitions of generalized distance and weight which appear in the literature.
Analysis of Temperature Effect on the Mechanical Behavior of Euler–Bernoulli Nanocantilever Using Molecular Dynamics Simulation Method
Authors: Ahmadi R. , Tahmasebipour M.
Published: September 2023

Due to the various applications of nanocantilevers as nanosensors and nanoactuators in nanoelectromechanical systems, understanding their behavior is of particular importance. In operating environments, nanocantilevers are simultaneously exposed to mechanical forces and heat. This study aims to examine the behavior of an Euler–Bernoulli nanocantilever when it is placed under mechanical loads and exposed to heat at the same time. The effects of size, temperature, and force on the flexural behavior of the nanocantilever were investigated and the following characteristics were obtained via molecular dynamics simulation: nanocantilever displacement versus time, maximum bending, nanocantilever yielding time, and the minimum acceptable working frequency range for nanocantilever-based nanoswitches. It was found that applying forces greater than 0.00005[Formula: see text]eV/A, the studied nanocantilevers would rapidly undergo plastic deformation. For applied forces less than 0.00005[Formula: see text]eV/A, the nanocantilevers with length of 40[Formula: see text]nm, 30[Formula: see text]nm and 20[Formula: see text]nm can withstand upto 750[Formula: see text]K, 600[Formula: see text]K and 300[Formula: see text]K in 200[Formula: see text]ns to more than 1.5[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s time period, respectively.