bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Description of a new endemic Enteromius (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) from the upper Malagarazi in Burundi: Lessons for a protected area under implementation
Authors: Bigirimana Anatole , Kisekelwa Tchalondawa , da Costa Luis M. , Huyghe Charlotte E. T. , Banyankimbona Gaspard , Vreven Emmanuel J. W. M. N.
Published: October 2024

Recent collecting efforts in the upper Malagarazi basin (2013–2022) allowed for an integrative study based on qualitative (colour), quantitative (meristic and metric), and barcoding gene [mtDNA, cytochrome c oxidase (COI)] data of specimens similar to Enteromius sp. ‘ascutelatus’, being a previously identified, potentially, new species. Based on these data, the present study confirms its identification as a new species for science, which is here formally described as Enteromius nzigidaherai sp. nov. This new species belongs to the group of Enteromius species for which the last unbranched ray of the dorsal fin is flexible and devoid of serrations along its posterior edge. This species has a horizontal series of black spots at the midlateral level of the sides. Three congeneric species, known from the Congo basin sensu lato, with two of them also found in the upper Malagarazi basin, are most similar to it. However, E. nzigidaherai sp. nov. is distinguished from the two sympatric upper Malagarazi species, that is, E. quadrilineatus and E. lineomaculatus, at least by two meristics and two morphometrics. It is also distinguished from E. urostigma, known from the upper Congo basin, by two meristics and one, apparently related, morphometric. In addition, a barcoding (mtDNA, COI) study revealed that the specimens of E. nzigidaherai sp. nov. form a well‐supported, separate lineage, with a K2P genetic distance of more than 10% with specimens identified as E. quadrilineatus and E. lineomaculatus, both originating from the upper Malagarazi basin and for which tissue samples were available. Finally, the new species was found to be endemic to the upper reaches of two left bank affluents of the upper Malagarazi basin: the Muyovozi and the Kinwa. However, both affluents are threatened by human activities, which seem to have resulted in its local disappearance as recent intensive collecting efforts in the latter affluent have remained unsuccessful. The species should thus be considered Critically Endangered (CR) according to IUCN criteria B1ab(ii,iv)c(i,iii). Therefore, it is hoped that the present description draws renewed attention to the importance of aquatic protection in the region by highlighting the need for the effective establishment of the Malagarazi Nature Reserve and concern for its optimal delimitation to efficiently protect the entire ichthyofauna of the upper Malagarazi, without excluding the fish species confined to its affluent rivers.
Estimates of life‐history and growth parameters of exploited fish species in lakes Edward and George: Implications on exploitation status, population dynamics, management, and conservation of native species
Authors: Musinguzi Laban , Kamya Ashiraf , Nsega Monic , Natugonza Vianny , Okello William , Snoeks Jos , Van Steenberge Maarten
Published: October 2024

Adequate knowledge is essential for responsible inland fisheries. However, many inland fisheries lack monitoring, and therefore, decision‐making for fisheries management is not reliable. In this paper, we used data from surveys and literature to estimate the life‐history and growth parameters of 16 exploited fish stocks in the Ugandan part of Lake Edward and Lake George (East Africa). The estimated parameters are pivotal indicators of fish stock status, particularly in data‐poor fisheries. The estimated parameters included maximum length (Lmax) and mean length (Lmean) as indicators of size structure in experimental and commercial catches, coefficients of length–weight relationships, length at 50% maturity (Lm50), fecundity, von Bertalanffy parameters, total mortality (Z), and natural mortality (M). These parameters were estimated using empirical formulae, statistical methods, and analyses of length frequencies. Only two stocks of semutundu Bagrus docmak exhibited significant and increasing trends in Lmax (Lake Edward) and Lmean (Lake George). The estimates for the remaining parameters were consistent with those in FishBase and other literature resources, either for the same species or related species. This consistency indicates their reliability for application in decision‐making and further assessments. Some parameters showed evidence of unsustainable fishing. For example, estimates of Lm50 for four of the assessed stocks belonging to two species (Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus and marbled lungfish Protopterus aethiopicus) were lower than baseline estimates in the studied waterbodies. Furthermore, the Lmean in catches for all the stocks were less than the optimum lengths (Lopt), which maximize catches with a minimal impact on biomass and size structure. No significant changes in Lmean, length–frequency distributions, and size at maturity could be attributed to the management changes implemented in 2018, probably because it is too early to observe changes in these parameters. However, there are positive signs attributable to the changes in management as shown by a high proportion of mature individuals in commercial catches for most of the stocks for which the proportion was calculated, and an increase in Lmean and Lmax for some stocks, such as B. docmak, in commercial or experimental catches. New estimates from this study will enhance decision‐making and further assessments of fisheries. Routine monitoring is recommended to update and improve the estimates.
Modeling Mass Transfer Kinetics and Thermodynamic Properties of Ultrasonically Pretreated and Untreated Apple Slices During Air‐Frying
Authors: Fikry Mohammad , Tagrida Mohamed , Mousa Esraa , Khojah Ebtihal , Aljumayi Huda , Al‐Ghamdi Saleh , Kadota Kazunori , Sarifudin Achmat
Published: October 2024

The combination of pretreatment with ultrasonic technology and air‐frying could improve the quality and efficiency of apple slice processing. This research aimed to explore how ultrasonic treatment prior to frying and varying temperatures during air‐frying impact the drying and thermodynamic characteristics of apple slices. The study also aimed to assess mathematical models that explain the moisture transfer kinetics and to numerically simulate the moisture distribution in apple slices during air‐frying operation. The results revealed that the moisture content and water activity (aw) of apple slices consistently decreased with longer frying times, regardless of the temperature. The mathematical models' precision was confirmed through regression analysis, which accurately represented the dynamics of moisture transfer, activation energy (Ea), and Gibbs free energy (ΔG) throughout the frying process. The results of the statistical analysis showed that the two‐term (exponential) model was effective in predicting moisture transfer in apple slices throughout air‐frying process, while the spatial distribution of moisture was successfully illustrated by the diffusion model under different conditions. Additionally, numerical simulations showed that moisture removal is faster at higher frying temperatures, and ultrasonic pretreatment led to a shorter frying time. Ultrasonic pretreatment combined with higher frying temperatures led to reduced differential enthalpy, along with an increased effective moisture diffusivity and Gibbs free energy difference. These findings are essential for improving and optimizing the frying process in food manufacturing.
DrYFiT: An Excel Freeware Tool to Describe Thin Layer Drying of Foods
Authors: Öksüz Hasan Basri , Buzrul Sencer
Published: October 2024

We introduced DrYFiT (drying data fitting tool), a Microsoft Excel freeware tool to be used for modeling thin‐layer drying of foods, which is available at https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ouompmNkmdmw1KMTJUnY0t8dJqSJ9iKv?usp=drive_link. There are 12 models in the tool and it can be used without any modeling and programming skills. Time and moisture ratio data can be entered and one of models available (one at a time) can be selected to describe the drying data. Parameter values, standard error of the parameters, p value and a statement that indicates whether the parameter is statistically significant or not (α = 0.05) are reported. Moreover, R2, adjusted R2 and root mean square error values are calculated for each model. Users can instantaneously observe the experimental data and the model fit on the same graph. Residual plot is given next to this graph. It is possible for the users to have the results of all models applied to drying data within a couple of minutes. The results of DrYFiT were compared with some popular software programs used for nonlinear regression and identical values (parameters, standard errors, p values, goodness‐of‐fit statistics) were obtained for 40 datasets.
Generalizing Determinacy under Monetary and Fiscal Policy Switches: The Case of the Zero Lower Bound
Authors: CHO SEONGHOON , MORENO ANTONIO
Published: October 2024

In a fixed‐regime context, it has been established since the work of Leeper (1991) that a determinate and unique equilibrium can be achieved under both monetary dominance (characterized by an active monetary policy and a passive fiscal policy) and fiscal dominance (characterized by an active fiscal policy and a passive monetary policy) regimes yield a determinate unique equilibrium. In this paper, we generalize this well‐established policy‐mix taxonomy to regime‐switching models, and show that switches from monetary dominance to fiscal dominance regimes (and vice versa) render the economy indeterminate for standard parameter values. We apply our results to the important case of the exit from the zero lower bound (ZLB), where monetary policy is inherently passive. Contrary to the fixed‐regime prediction, the economy switching between the ZLB in a fiscally led regime and a monetary dominance regime is robustly indeterminate, making the coordination of agents' beliefs hard for anchoring expected inflation. Finally, we propose a direction toward which the perspective of the fiscal theory of the price level can be made consistent with a unique stable equilibrium.
Central Bank Independence and Inflation in Latin America—Through the Lens of History
Authors: JÁCOME LUIS I. , PIENKNAGURA SAMUEL
Published: October 2024

We study the link between central bank independence and inflation by providing narrative and empirical evidence based on Latin America's historical experience. Using a novel historical data set of central bank independence for 17 Latin American countries, we recount the rocky journey traveled by central banks to achieve independence and price stability. Our empirical analysis finds a strong negative association between central bank independence and inflation over the last 80 years, with improvements in independence resulting in a steady decline in inflation. Results are robust to endogeneity concerns and to using alternative central bank independence indices.
How Do Housing Markets Affect Local Consumer Prices?: Evidence from U.S. Cities
Authors: CHOI CHI‐YOUNG , JO SOOJIN
Published: October 2024

We examine the link between house and consumer prices in 41 U.S. cities using retail price data for various consumer goods. We find that shifts in house prices precede consumer price changes, with varying impacts depending on location and product categories. The nature of housing market shocks matters too; housing supply shocks move consumer prices temporarily through the cost‐push dynamics, while housing demand shocks have enduring effects via wealth and collateral channels. Our findings imply that housing market fluctuations may have greater impacts on local cost of living and consumer welfare than their representation in the Consumer Price Index.
Rapid and local neuroestrogen synthesis supports long‐term potentiation of hippocampal Schaffer collaterals‐cornu ammonis 1 synapse in ovariectomized mice
Authors: Maroteaux Matthieu J. , Noccioli Claire T. , Daniel Jill M. , Schrader Laura A.
Published: October 2024

In aging women, cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia have been associated with the cessation of ovarian hormones production at menopause. In the brain, presence of the key enzyme aromatase required for the synthesis of 17‐β‐estradiol (E2) allows for local production of E2 in absence of functional ovaries. Understanding how aromatase activity is regulated could help alleviate the cognitive symptoms. In female rodents, genetic or pharmacological reduction of aromatase activity over extended periods of time impair memory formation, decreases spine density, and hinders long‐term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus. Conversely, increased excitatory neurotransmission resulting in rapid N‐methyl‐d‐aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor activation rapidly promotes neuroestrogen synthesis. This rapid modulation of aromatase activity led us to address the hypothesis that acute neuroestrogens synthesis is necessary for LTP at the Schaffer collateral‐cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) synapse in absence of circulating ovarian estrogens. To test this hypothesis, we did electrophysiological recordings of field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSPs) in hippocampal slices obtained from ovariectomized mice. To assess the impact of neuroestrogens synthesis on LTP, we applied the specific aromatase inhibitor, letrozole, before the induction of LTP with a theta burst stimulation protocol. We found that blocking aromatase activity prevented LTP. Interestingly, exogenous E2 application, while blocking aromatase activity, was not sufficient to recover LTP in our model. Our results indicate the critical importance of rapid, activity‐dependent local neuroestrogens synthesis, independent of circulating hormones for hippocampal synaptic plasticity in female rodents.
Dog Breed and Starch Gelatinisation Correlation in Food Digestibility and Faecal Traits
Authors: Pescuma Mariana Gilbert , Ximenes Thais Oliveira , Garcia Caroline Alves , de Ramos Eloise Cristina , de Oliveira Carolina Cristina , Henríquez Lucas Ben Fiuza , de Souza Theodoro Stephanie , Loureiro Bruna Agy , Carciofi Aulus Cavalieri
Published: October 2024

Large dog breeds commonly produce unformed faeces. The present study hypothesised that foods for large dog breeds require higher starch gelatinisation (SG) to reduce organic matter flow to colon. Fifteen Rottweilers (Ro; 49.4 ± 6.12 kg), 18 Beagles (Be; 12.13 ± 1.75 kg) and 20 Shih‐Tzus (ST; 4.62 ± 1.15 kg) were fed one of three diets, all based on the same sorghum formulation, processed to obtain three levels of SG: SG90 (91.8% SG), SG50 (50.7% SG) and SG30 (27.4% SG). Foods were provided for 23 days, and the coefficient of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD) of nutrients, faecal production and fermentation products, Na, K and Cl apparent absorption and gastrointestinal transit time (GTT) were evaluated. Results were submitted to analysis of variance considering SG, breed and their interactions, and means compared by the Tukey test (p < 0.05). All dogs promptly ate the foods. Faeces scores were lower for Ro than for Be and ST, and lower for SG30 than SG90 (p < 0.05). Faeces pH was higher, and total short‐chain fatty acids were lower for SG90 than for SG50 and SG30 (p < 0.01), regardless of breed. No diet effect was observed for GTT (p > 0.05), but it was lower for Ro (41.7 ± 6.2 h) than for ST (48.7 ± 8.6 h). The CTTAD of nutrients was lower for SG30, intermediary for SG50 and higher for SG90 (p < 0.05), and among breeds CTTAD was higher for Be than ST and Ro (p < 0.05), which did not differ from each other, except for crude protein CTTAD which was lower for Ro (p < 0.05). The apparent absorption of Na and K was higher for the SG90 treatment, and for Be in comparison with Ro and ST (p < 0.05). Food SG had a remarkable influence on Ro faeces formation and on the CTTAD in all breeds. Greater fermentation in the colon and lower protein CTTAD may be involved in Ro unformed faeces formation.
Phyllanthus prancei sp. nov. (Phyllanthaceae), a new species from Brazilian Amazon based on specimens collected by G. T. Prance and collaborators over 50 years ago
Authors: Clebson Ribeiro Mendes Jone , Barros da Silveira João , de Souza Secco Ricardo
Published: October 2024

A new species of Phyllanthus, collected by Sir Ghillean Tolmie Prance in Amazonas State, northern Brazil, is described. Phyllanthus prancei is the second known species in Phyllanthus subg. Conami sect. Calodictyon. It differs from the congeneric species P. tuerckheimii Webster by having tomentose branches, stipules and petioles, midrib tomentose only on the adaxial leaf surface, three free styles, and glandular, cupuliform, foveolate disc. A detailed description, photographs, an illustration, and comments on the distribution, habitat, phenology and preliminary conservation status are provided for the species.
Bigger genomes provide environment‐dependent growth benefits in grasses
Authors: Simpson Kimberley J. , Mian Sahr , Forrestel Elisabeth J. , Hackel Jan , Morton Joseph A. , Leitch Andrew R. , Leitch Ilia J.
Published: October 2024

Increasing genome size (GS) has been associated with slower rates of DNA replication and greater cellular nitrogen (N) and phosphorus demands. Despite most plant species having small genomes, the existence of larger GS species suggests that such costs may be negligible or represent benefits under certain conditions.

Focussing on the widespread and diverse grass family (Poaceae), we used data on species' climatic niches and growth rates under different environmental conditions to test for growth costs or benefits associated with GS. The influence of photosynthetic pathway, life history and evolutionary history on grass GS was also explored.

We found that evolutionary history, photosynthetic pathway and life history all influence the distribution of grass species' GS. Genomes were smaller in annual and C4 species, the latter allowing for small cells necessary for C4 leaf anatomy. We found larger GS were associated with high N availability and, for perennial species, low growth‐season temperature.

Our findings reveal that GS is a globally important predictor of grass performance dependent on environmental conditions. The benefits for species with larger GS are likely due to associated larger cell sizes, allowing rapid biomass production where soil fertility meets N demands and/or when growth occurs via temperature‐independent cell expansion.
Alignment, Anticipation, Adaptation, or Lagging Behind? Age‐Based Regulations in Assisted Reproduction and Late Fertility
Authors: Compans Marie‐Caroline
Published: October 2024

This paper focuses on age restrictions on access to infertility treatments and eligibility for their public reimbursement, exploring their relevancy in contexts of rising late birth rates (40+). I explore how age‐based reimbursement policies for in vitro fertilization treatments have responded to these fertility trends in 27 high‐income countries and in which regulatory frameworks for medically assisted reproduction (MAR) very late births (45+) have particularly increased. First, I show that while age limits for treatment reimbursement are well aligned with the prevalence of late fertility in some national contexts, in most countries, strict age restrictions are lagging behind the rise in late births. In others, pronatalist policies have prompted permissive age criteria or law revisions, anticipating or adapting to rising trends in late births. Second, the rise in very late births has been limited in some contexts with strict age‐based rules. However, the analysis suggests that the impact of MAR on very late births may also be influenced by contextual factors other than regulations.
Stable Isotope Labelling Reveals Water and Carbon Fluxes in Temperate Tree Saplings Before Budbreak
Authors: Walde Manuel G. , Lehmann Marco M. , Gessler Arthur , Vitasse Yann , Diao Haoyu
Published: October 2024

Despite considerable experimental effort, the physiological mechanisms governing temperate tree species' water and carbon dynamics before the onset of the growing period remain poorly understood. We applied 2H‐enriched water during winter dormancy to the soil of four potted European tree species. After 8 weeks of chilling, hydrogen isotopes in stem, twig and bud water were measured six times during 2 consecutive weeks of forcing conditions (Experiment 1). Additionally, we pulse‐labelled above‐ground plant tissues using 2H‐enriched water vapour and 13C‐enriched CO2 7 days after exposure to forcing conditions to trace atmospheric water and carbon uptake (Experiment 2). Experiment 1 revealed soil water incorporation into the above‐ground organs of all species during the chilling phase and significant species‐specific differences in water allocation during the forcing conditions, which we attributed to differences in structural traits. Experiment 2 illustrated water vapour incorporation into all above‐ground tissue of all species. However, the incorporation of carbon was found for evergreen saplings only. Our results suggest that temperate trees take up and reallocate soil water and absorb atmospheric water to maintain sufficient above‐ground tissue hydration during winter. Therefore, our findings provide new insights into the water allocation dynamics of temperate trees during early spring.
Jasmonates Regulate Auxin‐Mediated Root Growth Inhibition in Response to Rhizospheric pH in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Singh Ajit Pal , Kanwar Rajni , Pandey Ajay K.
Published: October 2024

Rhizospheric pH, an important environmental cue, severely impacts plant growth and fitness, therefore, has emerged as a major determinant of crop productivity. Despite numerous attempts, the key questions related to plants response against rhizospheric pH remains largely elusive. The present study provides a mechanistic framework for rhizospheric pH‐mediated root growth inhibition (RGI). Utilizing various genetic resources combined with pharmacological agents and high‐resolution confocal microscopy, the study provides direct evidence for the involvement of jasmonates and auxin in rhizospheric pH‐mediated RGI. We show that auxin maxima at root tip is tightly regulated by the rhizospheric pH. In contrast, jasmonates (JAs) abundance inversely correlates with rhizospheric pH. Furthermore, JA‐mediated regulation of auxin maxima through GRETCHEN HAGEN 3 (GH3) family genes explains the pattern of RGI observed over the range of rhizospheric pH. Our findings revealed auxin as the key regulator of RGI during severe pH conditions, while JAs antagonistically regulate auxin response against rhizospheric pH.
Perinatal mortality among term births: Informing decisions about singleton early term births in Western Australia
Authors: Berman Ye’elah E. , Newnham John P. , Nathan Elizabeth A. , Doherty Dorota A. , Brown Kiarna , Ward Sarah V.
Published: October 2024

Background

To minimise the risk of perinatal mortality, clinicians and expectant mothers must understand the risks and benefits associated with continuing the pregnancy.

Objectives

Report the gestation‐specific risk of perinatal mortality at term.

Methods

Population‐based cohort study using linked health data to identify all singleton births at gestations 37–41 weeks, in Western Australia (WA) from 2009 to 2019. Lifetable analysis was used to combine the risk of each type of perinatal mortality and calculate the cumulative risk of perinatal mortality, termed the perinatal risk index (PRI). Rates of antepartum and intrapartum stillbirth and neonatal death, as well as the PRI, were examined for each gestational week at term by non‐Aboriginal and Aboriginal ethnicity. For non‐Aboriginal women, rates were also examined by time‐period (pre‐ vs. post‐WA Preterm Birth Prevention Initiative (the Initiative) rollout), primiparity, and obstetric risk.

Results

There were 332,084 singleton term births, including 60 perinatal deaths to Aboriginal mothers (3.2 deaths per 1000 births to Aboriginal mothers) and 399 perinatal deaths to non‐Aboriginal mothers (1.3 deaths per 1000 births to non‐Aboriginal mothers). For non‐Aboriginal women, the PRI was at its lowest (PRI 0.80, 95% CI 0.61, 1.00) at 39 weeks gestation. For Aboriginal women, it was at its lowest at 38 weeks (PRI 2.43, 95% CI 0.48, 4.39) with similar risk at 39 weeks (PRI 2.68, 95% CI 1.22, 4.14). The PRI increased steadily after 39 weeks gestation. The risk of perinatal mortality was higher among Aboriginal women. The gestation‐specific perinatal mortality rates were similar by the time‐period, primiparity and obstetric risk.

Conclusions

The gestational ages at term associated with the lowest risk of perinatal mortality reinforce that the recommendation not to deliver before 39 weeks without medical indication is applicable to both Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal women giving birth in WA. There was no increase in the perinatal mortality rate associated with the introduction of the Initiative.
COPD: The forgotten cardiovascular risk
Authors: Cochrane Belinda
Published: October 2024

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Asymptotically faster estimation of high‐dimensional additive models using subspace learning
Authors: He Kejun , He Shiyuan , Huang Jianhua Z.
Published: October 2024

As a commonly used nonparametric model to overcome the curse of dimensionality, the additive model continually attracts attentions of researchers. Our recent work (He et al., 2022) proposed to reduce the number of unknown functions to be estimated through learning an adaptive subspace shared by the additive component functions. Equipped with an efficient algorithm, our proposed reduced additive model outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art alternatives in numerical studies. However, the asymptotic properties of the proposed estimators have not been explored and the empirical findings are short of theoretical explanation. In this work, we fill in the theoretical gap by showing the resulting estimator has faster convergence rate than the estimation without subspace learning; and this is true even when the reduced additive model is only an approximation, provided that the subspace approximation error is small. Moreover, the proposed method is able to consistently identify the relevant predictors. The developed theoretical results back up the earlier empirical findings.
The Rate of Leg Fat Oxidation Is Not Attenuated During Incremental Intensity One‐Leg Knee Extensor Exercise
Authors: Helge J. W. , Shannon C. E. , Stallknecht B. , Stephens F. B. , Greenhaff P. L. , Dela F.
Published: October 2024

It is not clear if fat oxidation is attenuated at higher exercise intensities, when exercising with a small muscle mass, and therefore, we studied leg fat oxidation during graded one‐leg exercise. Ten males (age: 27 ± 2 years, body mass: 82 ± 3 kg, BMI: 24 ± 1 kg m−2, V̇O2max: 49 ± 2 mL min−1 kg−1) performed one‐leg exercise at 25% of maximal workload (Wmax) for 30 min, followed by 120‐min exercise at 55% Wmax with the contralateral leg, and finally 30‐min exercise at 85% Wmax with the first leg. Blood was sampled from an artery and both femoral veins, and blood flow was determined using Doppler ultrasound. Muscle biopsies were obtained before and after 30 min at each workload. One‐way RM ANOVA was applied to determine the impact of exercise intensity. Data are expressed as mean ± SEM. From rest through exercise average blood flow (0.4 ± 0.1, 2.1 ± 0.1, 2.6 ± 0.2, 3.7 ± 0.2 L min−1) and oxygen uptake across the leg (0.03 ± 0.01, 0.23 ± 0.02, 0.35 ± 0.03, 0.53 ± 0.04 L min−1) increased with exercise intensity (p < 0.001). Leg RQ (0.76 ± 0.04, 0.86 ± 0.02,0.87 ± 0.01, 0.92 ± 0.01, p < 0.001), leg plasma FA uptake (2 ± 2, 46 ± 8,83 ± 9, 114 ± 16 μmol min−1; p < 0.001) and rate of leg fat oxidation (0.016 ± 0.005, 0.062 ± 0.012, 0.075 ± 0.011, 0.084 ± 0.018 g min−1, p < 0.007) increased with exercise intensity. Muscle‐free carnitine content was unchanged from rest at 25% Wmax and decreased after 30 min exercise at 55% and 85% Wmax (17.4 ± 1.6, 16.6 ± 0.7, 14.5 ± 1.2, 10.5 ± 1.0 mmol/kg dry muscle, respectively; p < 0.006). During incremental one‐leg exercise, the rate of leg fat oxidation was not attenuated with increasing exercise intensity, probably due to an insufficient muscle metabolic stress response.
Characterisation of the HLA‐DQ alpha eplet 52SK targeting the DQA1*01 alleles family
Authors: Devriese Magali , Lee Jar How , Meng Tina , Nong Thoa , Shih Neng Jen Remi , Lemonnier François A. , Miyadera Hiroko , Giraldo Lisa , Usureau Cédric , Toutirais Olivier , Lowe Dave , Taupin Jean Luc
Published: October 2024

Eplet 52SK is unique in the HLA eplet registry as targeting the whole family of DQA1*01 alleles. It is proposed as an antibody‐verified eplet but has not been validated enough to deserve this label. Especially, confusion can occur with reactivity targeting the 52PQ eplet which is present on the DQB1*05 and DQB1*06 alleles families, as DQ molecule stability imposes DQA1*01 to selectively associate with these DQ‐β families only. Using two Luminex single antigen (LSA) assays from two vendors, beads bearing DR‐α/DQ6 heterodimers, a special build LSA panel of additional DQ beads, and an adsorption/elution strategy relying on cells from deceased donors or recombinant cells solely expressing one DQ antigen, we definitely established the antibody‐verified status of eplet 52SK using patients' sera reacting only against the DQ5 and DQ6 beads of the One Lambda LSA panel in routine patients' follow up. We also show that reactivity against this eplet is not a rare event among anti‐DQ1 immunisation. This study further strengthens the importance of considering the DQA1 locus in immunological studies of HLA and in organ allocation strategies.
Characterisation of the novel HLA‐C*01:262 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Pajot Thibault , Elsermans Vincent , Bitan Joan , Top Isabelle , Labalette Myriam
Published: October 2024

HLA‐C*01:262 differs from HLA‐C*01:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 150 in exon 3.
Identification of three new HLA‐A intronic variants by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Moya‐Quiles María Rosa , Muro Manuel
Published: October 2024

Three novel HLA‐A intronic variants, HLA‐A*03:01:01:121, HLA‐A*29:02:01:41 and HLA‐A*30:02:01:24, detected by next‐generation sequencing.
Current–Voltage–Friction Characteristics of Grease in Electromechanically Loaded Sliding Contacts
Authors: Balakrishna G. V. , Gnanamoorthy R.
Published: October 2024

Electromechanically loaded contacts, which have relative motion between the contacting parts, experience severe damage compared to mechanically loaded contacts. The electromechanical environment occurs when different types of current flow through the bearings of traction motors due to the usage of electronic speed control devices. The current passage through the contact depends on the voltage potential developed across the contact. Grease is commonly used as a lubricant, and degradation and evaporation of lubricant due to the joule heating effect are concerns in electromechanical contacts. This study reports the current–voltage–friction characteristics of lithium mineral oil grease using a ball-on-disk configuration under combined electrical and mechanical loading. The characteristics indicated a transition of the lubricated contact from a non-conducting state to a conducting state with increased applied voltage. Two critical voltages are identified: one where the friction is observed to rise and the other where the current flow rapidly increases, leading to accelerated damage to the lubricant by inducing a significantly high temperature. The study helps in identifying permissible voltage levels for operating bearings safely from the perspective of grease lubricant using simplified ball-on-disk experiments.
Heat Transfer Characteristics of Methane–Air-Premixed Jet Flames With Flat/Hemispherical Walls
Authors: Zeng Chun , Pan Jianfeng , Hua Jinpeng , Yang Wenming , Li Zhongjia , Nauman Muhammad
Published: October 2024

The in-depth study of the mutual coupling between the flame and the wall can significantly enhance the efficiency of actual combustion devices. A two-dimensional numerical model was established for the heat transfer characteristics of methane–air-premixed jet flames on flat and hemispherical walls, respectively. An examination of the effects of wall shape on the heat transfer characteristics of methane/air flames was conducted as a function of the equivalence ratio (ϕ = 0.9–1.5), the mixture Reynolds number (Re = 300–800), and the burner-to-plate distance (H/d = 1–6). As the equivalence ratio and Reynolds number increase, the flame temperature increases on the surface near the wall, and the temperature near the flame centerline is higher under the influence of a hemispherical wall than it is under the influence of a plate. In addition, the wall's heat flux increases as both the equivalence ratio and the Reynolds number increase. It is observed that the heat flux of the hemispherical wall is greater than that of the flat plate near the stagnation point, whereas it is smaller at a distance from the stagnation point. Due to the burner-to-plate distance, thermal efficiency is maximized when the flame-premixed cone contacts the impact surface, which is the desired condition for optimal performance. Due to different operating conditions, the efficiency of heat transfer is always higher under the action of a flat plate than under the action of a hemispherical wall.
Offline and Online Exergy-Based Strategies for Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Acquarone Matteo , Pozzato Gabriele , James Corey , Onori Simona
Published: October 2024

Exergy-based control strategies for ground hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) enable to pursue unconventional optimization goals that are inaccessible when standard energy-based modeling frameworks based on fuel consumption minimization are used. In this work, we formulate and solve offline and online exergy-based optimization strategies for military HEVs aimed at the minimization of genset exergy destruction and thermal emissions to increase vehicle efficiency and minimize the risk of thermal imaging detection, respectively. We refer to the offline version of these strategies as exergy minimization strategies (ExMSs). Adaptive ExMSs (A-ExMSs) are then formulated for online implementation. Moreover, charge increasing (CI) ExMSs and A-ExMSs are developed to charge the battery as much as possible during a driving mission that is followed by a silent watch phase. To assess the performance of the proposed strategies, the results obtained by the ExMSs and A-ExMSs are compared to the benchmark solutions obtained by Dynamic Programming.
A human DCC variant causing mirror movement disorder reveals that the WAVE regulatory complex mediates axon guidance by netrin-1–DCC
Authors: Chaudhari Karina , Zhang Kaiyue , Yam Patricia T. , Zang Yixin , Kramer Daniel A. , Gagnon Sarah , Schlienger Sabrina , Calabretta Sara , Michaud Jean-Francois , Collins Meagan , Wang Junmei , Srour Myriam , Chen Baoyu , Charron Frédéric , Bashaw Greg J.
Published: October 2024

The axon guidance cue netrin-1 signals through its receptor DCC (deleted in colorectal cancer) to attract commissural axons to the midline. Variants in DCC are frequently associated with congenital mirror movements (CMMs). A CMM-associated variant in the cytoplasmic tail of DCC is located in a conserved motif predicted to bind to a regulator of actin dynamics called the WAVE (Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein–family verprolin homologous protein) regulatory complex (WRC). Here, we explored how this variant affects DCC function and may contribute to CMM. We found that a conserved WRC-interacting receptor sequence (WIRS) motif in the cytoplasmic tail of DCC mediated the interaction between DCC and the WRC. This interaction was required for netrin-1–mediated axon guidance in cultured rodent commissural neurons. Furthermore, the WIRS motif of Fra, the
Drosophila
DCC ortholog, was required for attractive signaling in vivo at the
Drosophila
midline. The CMM-associated R1343H variant of DCC, which altered the WIRS motif, prevented the DCC-WRC interaction and impaired axon guidance in cultured commissural neurons and in
Drosophila
. The findings reveal the WRC as a pivotal component of netrin-1–DCC signaling and uncover a molecular mechanism explaining how a human genetic variant in the cytoplasmic tail of DCC may lead to CMM.
MVP: a modular viromics pipeline to identify, filter, cluster, annotate, and bin viruses from metagenomes
Authors: Coclet Clément , Camargo Antonio Pedro , Roux Simon
Published: October 2024

While numerous computational frameworks and workflows are available for recovering prokaryote and eukaryote genomes from metagenome data, only a limited number of pipelines are designed specifically for viromics analysis. With many viromics tools developed in the last few years alone, it can be challenging for scientists with limited bioinformatics experience to easily recover, evaluate quality, annotate genes, dereplicate, assign taxonomy, and calculate relative abundance and coverage of viral genomes using state-of-the-art methods and standards. Here, we describe Modular Viromics Pipeline (MVP) v.1.0, a user-friendly pipeline written in Python and providing a simple framework to perform standard viromics analyses. MVP combines multiple tools to enable viral genome identification, characterization of genome quality, filtering, clustering, taxonomic and functional annotation, genome binning, and comprehensive summaries of results that can be used for downstream ecological analyses. Overall, MVP provides a standardized and reproducible pipeline for both extensive and robust characterization of viruses from large-scale sequencing data including metagenomes, metatranscriptomes, viromes, and isolate genomes. As a typical use case, we show how the entire MVP pipeline can be applied to a set of 20 metagenomes from wetland sediments using only 10 modules executed via command lines, leading to the identification of 11,656 viral contigs and 8,145 viral operational taxonomic units (vOTUs) displaying a clear beta-diversity pattern. Further, acting as a dynamic wrapper, MVP is designed to continuously incorporate updates and integrate new tools, ensuring its ongoing relevance in the rapidly evolving field of viromics. MVP is available at
https://gitlab.com/ccoclet/mvp
and as versioned packages in PyPi and Conda.

IMPORTANCE

The significance of our work lies in the development of Modular Viromics Pipeline (MVP), an integrated and user-friendly pipeline tailored exclusively for viromics analyses. MVP stands out due to its modular design, which ensures easy installation, execution, and integration of new tools and databases. By combining state-of-the-art tools such as geNomad and CheckV, MVP provides high-quality viral genome recovery and taxonomy and host assignment, and functional annotation, addressing the limitations of existing pipelines. MVP’s ability to handle diverse sample types, including environmental, human microbiome, and plant-associated samples, makes it a versatile tool for the broader microbiome research community. By standardizing the analysis process and providing easily interpretable results, MVP enables researchers to perform comprehensive studies of viral communities, significantly advancing our understanding of viral ecology and its impact on various ecosystems.
Applying the theoretical domains framework to identify determinants to mental healthcare use among older African Americans with type 2 diabetes: a qualitative study
Authors: Hawkins Jaclynn , Sengupta Srijani , Kloss Katherine A , Schwenzer Claudia , Smith Fonda N , Jones Lenette M , Mitchell Jamie , Nwankwo Robin , Piatt Gretchen A
Published: October 2024

Objectives

There is a paucity of research focused on enhancing access to mental healthcare for older African Americans with type 2 diabetes (T2D), who may be at risk for or living with comorbid depression. This study aims to identify barriers and facilitators to mental healthcare utilisation among this population, guided by the theoretical domains framework (TDF).

Design

This qualitative study involved 30 interviews with older African American adults diagnosed with T2D. The interview questions were aligned with TDF domains to capture participant perspectives on barriers and facilitators to mental healthcare use.

Setting

Interviews were conducted via telephone by a licensed clinician trained in social work. Each session lasted 60–90 min and was transcribed and analysed.

Participants

The study included 30 African American adults (15 males and 15 females), aged 60 and above, living in an urban area in the Midwest.

Primary and secondary outcomes

The primary outcome was the identification of themes from participant responses, analysed using thematic content techniques and categorised into TDF constructs. Demographic data served as the secondary outcome.

Results

Nine key themes were identified, categorised under major TDF domains and constructs. Significant barriers included (1) systemic racism (‘knowledge’), (2) normalisation of depressive symptoms (‘beliefs about consequences’), (3) perceived stigma (‘beliefs about consequences’) and 4) costs of medications and healthcare (‘environmental context and resources’). Facilitators to seeking mental healthcare included (1) empowerment (‘beliefs about capabilities’), (2) perceived benefits of mental health exams (‘beliefs about consequences’), (3) positive provider experiences (‘reinforcement’), (4) recognition of depressive symptoms as a motivator (‘goals’) and (5) support networks (‘social influences’).

Conclusion and implications

Key findings highlight that fostering positive patient–provider relationships and enhancing self-recognition of depressive symptoms can significantly encourage mental healthcare utilisation among older African Americans with T2D. These findings suggest that future interventions should focus on strengthening these relationships and improving self-awareness to better mental health outcomes.
Genicular artery embolisation versus sham embolisation for symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: van Zadelhoff Tijmen A , Bos P Koen , Moelker Adriaan , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M A , van der Heijden Rianne A , Oei Edwin H G
Published: October 2024

Objective

To determine the efficacy of genicular artery embolisation (GAE) compared with sham GAE for pain reduction in patients with symptomatic mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Design

Double-blind randomised sham-controlled clinical trial conducted from June 2019 to December 2021. The follow-up period was 4 months.

Setting

Single-centre study conducted at a university medical centre in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Participants

58 adults with symptomatic mild-to-moderate KOA not improving with conservative treatment.

Interventions

Participants were randomised to receive either GAE treatment or a sham GAE treatment.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was reduction of pain measured with the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score pain subscale (0–100, with 0 representing the worst pain outcome and 100 the best) after 4 months. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 1 and 4 months.

Results

From June 2019 to December 2021, 58 patients were included. 29 patients were randomised to the GAE group and 29 to the sham group. All participants completed the study. The mean pain reduction after 4 months was 21.4 (95% CI 13.9 to 28.8) for the GAE group and 18.4 points (95% CI 11.6 to 25.1) for the sham group. The between-group difference for the mean pain reduction was 3.0 (95% CI −7.1 to 13.0) with an estimated Cohen’s d effect size of d = 0.15 (95% CI −0.37 to 0.66). Group allocation was not a significant contributor to pain reduction (p = 0.31). No serious adverse events (AEs) occurred. 23 mild AEs occurred in the GAE group and 5 in the sham group.

Conclusion

We did not establish a clinical effect of GAE in patients with mild-to-moderate KOA as GAE produced a similar effect on pain reduction as a sham GAE procedure.

Trial registration number

NCT03884049.
Differential associations of physical job demands with cognitive impairment in Korean workers aged 45 and older: a 14-year longitudinal study using the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA)
Authors: Ha Jea Chul , Yoon Jin-Ha
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To investigate the association between subelements of physical job demands and cognitive impairment risk in middle-aged and older workers in Korea.

Design

Longitudinal study using eight waves (2006–2020) of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging.

Setting

Nationally representative sample of the Korean population aged 45 years and older.

Participants

2170 workers aged 45 and older at baseline.

Primary outcome measures

Cognitive function was evaluated using the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Examination and cognitive impairment was defined as a score below 24.

Results

High physical strength demands were inversely associated with cognitive impairment (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.68 for ‘always’ vs ‘never’ category). Conversely, frequent heavy lifting (OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.36 to 5.26) and bending, kneeling or squatting (OR 1.69, 95% CI 0.82 to 3.47) tasks were associated with increased impairment risk. Dose–response relationships were observed between all physical job demands and cognitive impairment, persisting among those with lower education but not among those with higher education.

Conclusions

Different types of physical job demands have varying relationships with cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older workers. Tasks requiring high physical strength may protect against cognitive impairment while tasks involving heavy lifting and bending, kneeling or squatting may increase the risk. These findings highlight the need for tailored interventions that consider the type of physical job demands and workers’ educational levels to mitigate cognitive impairment risks. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and validate these findings.
Comparing the impact of targeting limited driving pressure to low tidal volume ventilation on mortality in mechanically ventilated adults with COVID-19 ARDS: an exploratory target trial emulation
Authors: Tanios Maged , Wu Ting Ting , Nguyen Huang (Mark) , Smith Louisa , Mahidhara Raja , Devlin John W
Published: October 2024

Background

An association between driving pressure (∆P) and the outcomes of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) may exist. However, the effect of a sustained limitation of ∆P on mortality in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), including patients with COVID-19 (COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (C-ARDS)) undergoing IMV, has not been rigorously evaluated. The use of emulations of a target trial in intensive care unit research remains in its infancy. To inform future, large ARDS target trials, we explored using a target trial emulation approach to analyse data from a cohort of IMV adults with C-ARDS to determine whether maintaining daily ∆p<15 cm H2O (in addition to traditional low tidal volume ventilation (LTVV) (tidal volume 5–7 cc/PBW+plateau pressure (Pplat) ≤30 cm H2O), compared with LTVV alone, affects the 28-day mortality.

Methods

To emulate a target trial, adults with C-ARDS requiring >24 hours of IMV were considered to be assigned to limited ∆P or LTVV. Lung mechanics were measured twice daily after ventilator setting adjustments were made. To evaluate the effect of each lung-protective ventilation (LPV) strategy on the 28-day mortality, we fit a stabilised inverse probability weighted marginal structural model that adjusted for baseline and time-varying confounders known to affect protection strategy use/adherence or survival.

Results

Among the 92 patients included, 27 (29.3%) followed limited ∆P ventilation, 23 (25.0%) the LTVV strategy and 42 (45.7%) received no LPV strategy. The adjusted estimated 28-day survival was 47.0% (95% CI 23%, 76%) in the limited ∆P group, 70.3% in the LTVV group (95% CI 37.6%, 100%) and 37.6% (95% CI 20.8%, 58.0%) in the no LPV strategy group.

Interpretation

Limiting ∆P may not provide additional survival benefits for patients with C-ARDS over LTVV. Our results help inform the development of future target trial emulations focused on evaluating LPV strategies, including reduced ∆P, in adults with ARDS.