bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispersal constrains the biotic connectivity of mountain assemblages
Authors: Peña R. , Obeso J. R. , Laiolo P.
Published: February 2024

Aim

Climate warming is shifting the bioclimatic optima of species towards mountaintops, but the ability of organisms to track these changes also depends on their dispersal skills. Here, we assessed the role of dispersal over niche‐driven processes in connecting assemblages along mountain slopes and between mountain massifs.

Location

Cantabrian Mountains, Spain.

Taxon

Birds (Animalia; Aves) and Lichens (Fungi; Ascomycota, Basidiomycota).

Methods

We examined the change with elevation of community‐level traits that are dispersal proxies (wing shape in birds and type of dispersing propagule in lichens) and ecological niche proxies (micro‐habitat, substrate, and foraging features). We then permutate species composition within sites and massifs to create models of species distribution constrained by dispersal and niche processes. These models were compared with observed species distribution to disclose the relative contribution of dispersal and niche‐based processes in the biotic interchange along mountain slopes (vertical connectivity) and between isolated summits (horizontal connectivity).

Results

Both bird and lichen communities were formed by species with traits that enhance dispersal at high elevations. These groups also showed similarities in the elevational patterns of niche diversity, which dropped at high elevations. Dispersal was by far the dominant assembly mechanism in both taxa. Pairwise community comparisons among elevation belts showed weak vertical connectivity, with predominant dispersal limitations but also niche barriers between the extremes of the gradient. Among massifs, horizontal connectivity was higher among high mountain assemblages than those from lower elevations.

Main Conclusion

Dispersal was found to be the dominant assembly mechanism in mountain systems, even in taxa with high dispersal potential. Highland assemblages had low functional diversity but their species had high mobility. This permits biotic interchange between isolated summits and, potentially, colonization of other summits as climate warms. Our framework combining traits and occurrence‐permutation models improve the understanding of community assembly mechanisms along elevation gradients and points to dispersal limitations, especially at low‐middle elevations.
Does AI‐assisted creation of polyphonic music increase academic motivation? The DeepBach graphical model and its use in music education
Authors: Yuan Na
Published: February 2024

Background

In the modern music industry, AI music generators have gained particular importance. The use of AI greatly simplifies the creation of polyphony. In addition, it can increase student motivation and interest.

Aims

This study focuses on the AI‐assisted creation of polyphonic music. The purpose of this study is to determine how creating polyphony through the Deep Bach model impacts the academic motivation of music university students.

Materials & Methods

Achieving this goal is possible by conducting an experimental training program based on the use of the above‐mentioned model.

Results

The results show that students in the experimental group have higher motivation than the control group participants. Therefore, AI‐based music creation has the potential to become a new trend in music education.

Implications

The findings of this study can be useful for music education experts, providing empirical data on the effectiveness of AI in music education. The use of the data can ultimately improve the learning process. Future research can focus on developing alternative AI models as well as investigating their effectiveness in music education.
Enhancing blood pressure management protocol implementation in patients with acute intracerebral haemorrhage through a nursing‐led approach: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pancorbo Olalla , Sanjuan Estela , Rodríguez‐Samaniego María Teresa , Miñarro Olga , Simonetti Renato , Olivé‐Gadea Marta , García‐Tornel Álvaro , Rodriguez‐Villatoro Noelia , Muchada Marián , Rubiera Marta , Álvarez‐Sabin José , Molina Carlos A. , Rodriguez‐Luna David
Published: February 2024

Aim

To evaluate the impact of nurse care changes in implementing a blood pressure management protocol on achieving rapid, intensive and sustained blood pressure reduction in acute intracerebral haemorrhage patients.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data over 6 years.

Methods

Intracerebral haemorrhage patients within 6 h and systolic blood pressure ≥ 150 mmHg followed a rapid (starting treatment at computed tomography suite with a target achievement goal of ≤60 min), intensive (target systolic blood pressure < 140 mmHg) and sustained (maintaining target stability for 24 h) blood pressure management plan. We differentiated six periods: P1, stroke nurse at computed tomography suite (baseline period); P2, antihypertensive titration by stroke nurse; P3, retraining by neurologists; P4, integration of a stroke advanced practice nurse; P5, after COVID‐19 impact; and P6, retraining by stroke advanced practice nurse. Outcomes included first‐hour target achievement (primary outcome), tomography‐to‐treatment and treatment‐to‐target times, first‐hour maximum dose of antihypertensive treatment and 6‐h and 24‐h systolic blood pressure variability.

Results

Compared to P1, antihypertensive titration by stroke nurses (P2) reduced treatment‐to‐target time and increased the rate of first‐hour target achievement, retraining of stroke nurses by neurologists (P3) maintained a higher rate of first‐hour target achievement and the integration of a stroke advanced practice nurse (P4) reduced both 6‐h and 24‐h systolic blood pressure variability. However, 6‐h systolic blood pressure variability increased from P4 to P5 following the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Finally, compared to P1, retraining of stroke nurses by stroke advanced practice nurse (P6) reduced tomography‐to‐treatment time and increased the first‐hour maximum dose of antihypertensive treatment.

Conclusion

Changes in nursing care and continuous education can significantly enhance the time metrics and blood pressure outcomes in acute intracerebral haemorrhage patients.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.

Patient and Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder and psychostimulant use in patients seeking dental care—Associations with common orofacial pain complaints
Authors: Malacarne Alberto , Jain Shruti , Barouxis Lena , Walterscheid Bailey , Finkelman Matthew
Published: February 2024

Background

Dental medicine should expand its scope to properly assess medical and psychosocial factors that might have an impact on patients' oral health. Based on previous literature and clinical experience, attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and psychostimulant medications might represent factors associated with orofacial pain symptoms.

Objective

The aim of the study was to assess whether common orofacial pain complaints such as jaw pain, jaw clicking, teeth clenching and headaches are more prevalent in dental patients who have an ADHD diagnosis and/or use psychostimulant medications.

Methods

Orofacial pain symptoms prevalence was compared among four groups from a sample of new patients seeking dental care at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (n = 11 699) based on ADHD diagnosis and psychostimulants intake: G1: no ADHD, no stimulants; G2: yes ADHD, yes stimulants; G3: yes ADHD, no stimulants; G4: no ADHD, yes stimulants.

Results

In multivariable logistic regression models adjusting for age, gender, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption, significant differences were found for clenching (p < .0001), jaw pain (p < .0001), and headache (p < .0001). Compared to G1, two groups (G2 and G4) exhibited significantly higher odds of clenching and headaches, whereas only G2 exhibited significantly higher odds of jaw pain.

Conclusions

In comparison with patients without ADHD and not taking psychostimulants medications, dental patients using psychostimulants with and without ADHD diagnosis report headaches and teeth clenching more frequently, while jaw pain is reported more frequently only by those taking psychostimulants with an ADHD diagnosis. Further research is necessary to assess the nature of these associations and their clinical relevance.
Reliability between the two‐colour chewing gum and the gummy‐jelly tests used for the assessment of masticatory performance
Authors: Nrecaj Arnold , Takeshita Lisa , Moreira Yasmin Milhomens , Schimmel Martin , Leles Cláudio Rodrigues , Srinivasan Murali
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of two methods used to assess masticatory performance and attempt to correlate them to achieve interchangeability between the methods.

Methods

Twelve healthy dentate volunteers (men = 6, women = 6; mean age = 28.3 ± 4.1) with no known dental or medical pathologies were requested to participate in this study. Each participant completed three masticatory performance assessments, including two two‐colour mixing‐ability tests using chewing‐gums (CG: gum#1 and gum#2) and the gummy‐jelly (GJ) test. For each method, participants created five samples each (total = 15 measurements per participant, gum#1 = 5, gum#2 = 5, GJ = 5). For the gum#1 and gum#2 methods, the predetermined chewing cycles were fixed at 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 cycles, and for the GJ method, the time duration was fixed at 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 s. The parameter measures were submitted to Z‐score transformation, and Bland–Altman plots were generated to graphically compare the differences between two techniques against their means. Additionally, mountain plot was used to assess the cumulative distribution of measurement error between the methods.

Results

A total of 180 measurements were recorded. There were significant correlations between the number of chewing cycles/chewing time and masticatory performance using the gum#1 (r = −.753; p < .001), gum#2 (r = −.838; p < .001) and GJ (r = .730). When all tests were considered together for each method, significant correlations were found (p < .001). A descriptive range of mean values aiming to produce reference value ranges for predictive purposes was achieved considering the interchangeably among the methods [CG = GJ (VoH‐mg = dL): 10 cycle = 10 s: 0.329 = 110; 15 cycles = 15 s: 0.177 = 164; 20 cycles = 20 s: 0.130 = 205; 25 cycles = 25 s: 0.086 = 200; 30 cycles = 30 s: 0.077 = 267].

Conclusion

The strong correlations and high consistency between the two masticatory performance methods found in this study conclude that the two assessment methods are reliable and interchangeable. Further evaluations are warranted to arrive at a conversion formula for translation of the results between the two methods.
Role of NF‐κB in cardiac changes of obstructive sleep apnoea rabbits treated by mandibular advancement device
Authors: Kang Wenjing , Zhu Dechao , Zhang Shilong , Qiao Xing , Liu Jie , Liu Chunyan , Lu Haiyan
Published: February 2024

Background

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to investigate the role of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) in the changes of cardiac structures in OSA rabbits treated by mandibular advancement device (MAD).

Methods

Eighteen male New Zealand white rabbits aged 6 months were randomly divided into three groups: control group, group OSA and group MAD. Hyaluronate gel was injected into the soft palate of the rabbits in group OSA and group MAD to induce OSA. The cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) of the upper airway and polysomnography (PSG) was performed to ensure successful modelling. CBCT and PSG were applied again to detect the effects of MAD treatment. All animals were induced to sleep in a supine position for 4–6 h a day for 8 weeks. Then the levels of NF‐κB, Interleukin 6 (IL‐6), Interleukin 10 (IL‐10) and the proportion of myocardial fibrosis (MF) were detected.

Results

The higher activation of NF‐κB, IL‐6 and IL‐10 were found in the OSA group than in the control group, leading to the increase of collagen fibres compared with the control group. Furthermore, the apnoea‐hypopnea index (AHI) was positively correlated with the above factors. There were no significant differences between group MAD and the control group.

Conclusion

The NF‐κB pathway was activated in the myocardium of OSA rabbits, which accelerated the development of MF. Early application of MAD could reduce the activation of NF‐κB in the myocardium and prevent the development of MF.
Live feed enrichments using microalgae for pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) larval culture
Authors: Yanes‐Roca C. , Štěrbová K. , Mráz J. , Veselý L. , Malinovskyi O. , Pěnka T. , Masojídek J. , Policar T.
Published: February 2024

This trial aimed to customize pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) larval nutrition using live feed enrichments based on Chlorella vulgaris and Trachydiscus minutus. Pikeperch larvae were fed with rotifers and Artemia enriched with C. vulgaris and T. minutus during the first 17 days after exogenous feeding (started 4 days post‐hatching [dph]) and only Artemia until 20 dph. Larvae were exposed to seven different enrichments: (a) Nannochloropsis occulata (Nanno 3600 reed Mariculture) (Control), (b) C. vulgaris cultured at 20°C in BG‐117 medium (BG20), (c) C. vulgaris cultured at 30°C in BG‐117 medium (BG30), (d) T. minutus cultured at 15°C (T15), (e) T. minutus cultured at 25°C (T25), (f) C. vulgaris cultured at 20°C in urea medium (U20), and (g) C. vulgaris cultured at 30°C in urea medium (U30). After 20 days, no significant differences were found between treatments on total length, standard length, myomere height, and eye diameter. On the contrary, significant differences were found in larval fatty acid composition after the trial period. Larvae from the BG30 treatment showed a significantly higher concentration of docosahexaenoic acid (5.61%), and larvae from the T25 treatment had a higher concentration of eicosapentaenoic acid 12.95%. Furthermore, larvae from the U20 treatment had a significantly higher arachidonic acid concentration of 0.116%. Overall, regarding essential fatty acid concentration, a significant difference was observed between the control treatment (Nannochloropsis) and the other treatments. No adverse effects were found on growth or survival when Nannochloropsis‐enriched live feed was replaced with the other enrichments. This trial's results will help optimize the pikeperch larvae's nutritional requirements and diversify the live feed enrichments used during the first feeding.
A multi‐degree‐of‐freedom monitoring method for slope displacement based on stereo vision
Authors: Wang Weidong , Peng Jun , Hu Wenbo , Wang Jin , Xu Xinyue , Zaheer Qasim , Qiu Shi
Published: February 2024

Three‐dimensional displacement monitoring over long distances has been a long‐standing concern in the structural health monitoring industry. In this study, a multi‐degree‐of‐freedom slope displacement monitoring method is developed by fusing computer vision and the 3D point triangulation method. Attributed to this method, the problems of outdoor binocular camera calibration, multi‐target mismatching, and outdoor illumination effects were solved. First, a two‐stage camera calibration method is proposed to accurately calibrate intrinsic and extrinsic camera parameters under a large field of view and long working distance conditions. Second, the adaptive spatial‐frequency method is proposed to calculate the coding and pixel coordinates of the monitored target. In this step, to solve the problem of mismatching monitored points in different camera frames, the Augmented Reality University of Cordoba code is introduced to provide a unique identity code for each monitored point. To mitigate the impact of illumination and other factors on pixel coordinate calculation, an adaptive pixel coordinate calculation method that combines information from the spatial and frequency domains is proposed., Third, based on the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the stereo camera and the pixel coordinates of the monitored points, the 3D coordinates of the monitored points are obtained through triangulation. Finally, the accuracy experiments and stability experiments are conducted. According to the results of the experiments, the measurement distance is positively correlated with the measurement error. And the baseline length is negatively correlated with the measurement error in the z‐direction. Ultimately, we suggest that the ratio of baseline length to measurement distance should be greater than 40%. When the recommended value is satisfied, the measurement error is less than 1 mm when the measurement distance is less than 40 m. When the measurement distance is equal to 90 m, the measurement error is less than 5 mm. Meanwhile, stability experiments of the algorithm were carried out, and in a period of outdoor validation experiments, the fluctuations were only sub‐millimeter, demonstrating good anti‐interference performance. Moreover, the method proposed in this study successfully monitored a landslide disaster in Guangxi, which demonstrated its outstanding practical application capabilities.
Innovative leadership characteristics of Generation X and Y nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Günay İpek , Çiçek Korkmaz Ayşe
Published: February 2024

The study aimed to identify the innovative leadership qualities of Generation X and Y nurses and explore factors affecting these qualities in both generations. This cross‐sectional study was conducted with 324 teaching and research hospital nurses. Data were gathered using a Personal Information Form and the Innovative Leadership Scale from October 2021 to March 2022. Descriptive statistics were applied, followed by Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis H tests, and multiple linear regression. Of the nurses, 34% were Generation X, while 66% were Generation Y. Both Generation X and Y nurses exhibited high scores of innovative leadership, with no significant difference in their overall scale scores. Generation X nurses scored higher on average in the subscales of being entrepreneur, motivating others, and being energetic. In contrast, Generation Y nurses excelled in being open to new ideas and being a changemaker. The factors influencing nurses' innovative leadership qualities included their educational level, position, work clinic, clinical experience, shift type, and perception of themselves as leaders. These results suggest that nurses from both generations manifest differing innovative leadership qualities.
Disruptions in Educational Progress and Fertility Dynamics by Educational Level: Unraveling the Link between Education and Fertility Stalls in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Schoumaker Bruno D. , Sánchez‐Páez David A.
Published: February 2024

Stalls in fertility decline have been found in many sub‐Saharan African countries. Our objective is to unravel the relationship between education and stalled fertility by analyzing the extent to which fertility stalls reflect a lack of changes in the educational composition of the population or are related to reversals and halts in the fertility decline within educational groups. Using the Demographic and Health Surveys and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys, we first estimate total fertility rates by educational level and examine how they have varied over time, especially during periods of stagnation. Then, we use the Kitagawa decomposition method to analyze changes in country‐level fertility rates. We show that fertility stalls tend to be a collective experience with fertility stalls found among all educational groups in most countries that have experienced a fertility stall. In contrast, composition effects either have no or a limited impact on fertility stalls. However, slow educational progress made some countries more vulnerable to stalls.
Characterization of two CYP80 enzymes provides insights into aporphine alkaloid skeleton formation in Aristolochia contorta
Authors: Meng Fanqi , Zhang Sixuan , Su Jiaxian , Zhu Butuo , Pan Xian , Qiu Xiaoxiao , Cui Xinyun , Wang Chunling , Niu Lili , Li Caili , Lu Shanfa
Published: February 2024

Aporphine alkaloids are a large group of natural compounds with extensive pharmaceutical application prospects. The biosynthesis of aporphine alkaloids has been paid attentions in the past decades. Here, we determined the contents of four 1‐benzylisoquinoline alkaloids and five aporphine alkaloids in root, stem, leaf, and flower of Aristolochia contorta Bunge, which belongs to magnoliids. Two CYP80 enzymes were identified and characterized from A. contorta. Both of them catalyze the unusual C‐C phenol coupling reactions and directly form the aporphine alkaloid skeleton. AcCYP80G7 catalyzed the formation of hexacyclic aporphine corytuberine. AcCYP80Q8 catalyzed the formation of pentacyclic proaporphine glaziovine. Kingdom‐wide phylogenetic analysis of the CYP80 family suggested that CYP80 first appeared in Nymphaeales. The functional divergence of hydroxylation and C‐C (or C‐O) phenol coupling preceded the divergence of magnoliids and eudicots. Probable crucial residues of AcCYP80Q8 were selected through sequence alignment and molecular docking. Site‐directed mutagenesis revealed two crucial residues E284 and Y106 for the catalytic reaction. Identification and characterization of two aporphine skeleton‐forming enzymes provide insights into the biosynthesis of aporphine alkaloids.
Donors with repeated blood product discards for filtration problems, clots or hemolysis: Causes and follow‐up
Authors: Díaz Padilla Niubel , Wiersum‐Osselton Johanna C , Ghasemi Nezjad Shahryar , Dijkshoorn Gitta , Gonzalez‐Garcia Fernando , Novotny Vĕra M. J.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Sanquin donor medicine department is informed when donations or their components are rejected. This can occur isolated or frequently. It is undesirable because the donations cannot be used and there may be an underlying medical cause. Based on regional approaches, a uniform procedure was developed.

Methods

Information about whole blood, plasma‐ plateletpheresis donations from which one or more components were rejected for filtration time (>2 h), hemolysis or clots were extracted from blood bank information system. After rejection of two successive components or donations or total ≥3 the donor is contacted. Depending on the medical history and investigation by the family doctor, the donor carrier is re‐evaluated. We looked for the causes of the discarded products and performed a survey among blood services regarding polices with discarded products.

Results

One or more components from 1742 of about 2.2 million successful donations (0.08%) were rejected. The highest percentage of rejection was seen in plateletpheresis (1.5%), all for clots. No underlying medical causes were found. 24 whole blood donors were found to have sickle cell trait (SCT) and were permanently deferred.

The policies for follow‐up after discarded products or acceptance of SCT donors vary between the 16 blood banks. Six organizations do not follow‐up donors and seven accept SCT for blood or plasma donation.

Conclusion

Informing donors with repeated discarded products avoids the non‐use of donations. Causes of repeated discarded products can be found by follow‐up of donors. The results of the survey indicate a large discrepancy in policies applied worldwide.
International review of blood donation nucleic acid amplification testing
Authors: Faddy Helen M. , Osiowy Carla , Custer Brian , Busch Michael , Stramer Susan L. , Adesina Opeyemi , van de Laar Thijs , Tsoi Wai‐Chiu , Styles Claire , Kiely Phil , Margaritis Angelo , Kwon So‐Yong , Qiu Yan , Deng Xuelian , Lewin Antoine , Jørgensen Signe Winther , Erikstrup Christian , Juhl David , Sauleda Silvia , Camacho Rodriguez Bernardo Armando , Coral Lisbeth Jennifer Catherine Soto , Gaviria García Paula Andrea , Oota Sineenart , O'Brien Sheila F. , Wendel Silvano , Castro Emma , Navarro Pérez Laura , Harvala Heli , Davison Katy , Reynolds Claire , Jarvis Lisa , Grabarczyk Piotr , Kopacz Aneta , Łętowska Magdalena , O'Flaherty Niamh , Young Fiona , Williams Padraig , Burke Lisa , Chua Sze Sze , Muylaert An , Page Isabel , Jones Ann , Niederhauser Christoph , Vermeulen Marion , Laperche Syria , Gallian Pierre , Sawadogo Salam , Satake Masahiro , Gharehbaghian Ahmad , Addas‐Carvalho Marcelo , Blanco Sebastián , Gallego Sandra V. , Seltsam Axel , Weber‐Schehl Marijke , Al‐Riyami Arwa Z. , Al Maamari Khuloud , Alawi Fatma Ba , Pandey Hem Chandra , Mbanya Dora , França Rochele Azevedo , Charlewood Richard ,   the Virology and Surveillance; Risk Assessment and Policy subgroups of the ISBT Working Party on Transfusion‐transmitted Infectious Diseases
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives

Nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT), in blood services context, is used for the detection of viral and parasite nucleic acids to reduce transfusion‐transmitted infections. This project reviewed NAT for screening blood donations globally.

Materials and Methods

A survey on NAT usage, developed by the International Society of Blood Transfusion Working Party on Transfusion‐transmitted Infectious Diseases (ISBT WP‐TTID), was distributed through ISBT WP‐TTID members. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Forty‐three responses were received from 32 countries. Increased adoption of blood donation viral screening by NAT was observed over the past decade. NAT‐positive donations were detected for all viruses tested in 2019 (proportion of donations positive by NAT were 0.0099% for human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], 0.0063% for hepatitis C virus [HCV], 0.0247% for hepatitis B virus [HBV], 0.0323% for hepatitis E virus [HEV], 0.0014% for West Nile virus [WNV] and 0.00005% for Zika virus [ZIKV]). Globally, over 3100 NAT‐positive donations were identified as NAT yield or solely by NAT in 2019 and over 22,000 since the introduction of NAT, with HBV accounting for over half. NAT‐positivity rate was higher in first‐time donors for all viruses tested except WNV. During 2019, a small number of participants performed NAT for parasites (Trypanosoma cruzi, Babesia spp., Plasmodium spp.).

Conclusion

This survey captures current use of blood donation NAT globally. There has been increased NAT usage over the last decade. It is clear that NAT contributes to improving blood transfusion safety globally; however, there is a need to overcome economic barriers for regions/countries not performing NAT.
Rubber tori in the boundary of expanded stable maps
Authors: Carocci Francesca , Nabijou Navid
Published: February 2024

We investigate torus actions on logarithmic expansions in the context of enumerative geometry. Our main result is an intrinsic and coordinate‐free description of the higher rank rubber torus appearing in the boundary of the space of expanded stable maps. The rubber torus is constructed canonically from the tropical moduli space, and its action on each stratum of the expanded target is encoded in a linear tropical position map. The presence of 2‐morphisms in the universal target forces expanded stable maps differing by the rubber action to be identified. This provides the first step towards a recursive description of the boundary of the expanded moduli space, with future applications including localisation and rubber calculus.
How US Fiscal and Monetary Policy affect the GDP of Countries with Fixed and Flexible Exchange Rates: Estimates using Korean Data from 1963 to 2022
Authors: Leightner Jonathan E.
Published: February 2024

The simplest large country IS/LM/BP model (Mundell-Fleming Model) predicts that an increase in Government spending in the US would cause an increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for countries with flexible exchange rate regimes and decreases in GDP for countries with fixed exchange rate regimes. In contrast, increases in the US money supply would cause an increase in GDP for countries with fixed exchange rate regimes and decreases in GDP for countries with flexible exchange rate regimes. This paper uses a solution to the omitted variables problem of regression analysis to estimate the effects of US fiscal and monetary policy on the Republic of Korea using quarterly data. The data splits into two sections: (1) from 1962 through 1997, Korea had a fixed exchange rate regime and (2) from 1998 through 2022, Korea had a flexible exchange rate regime. The empirical results fit the Large Country IS/LM/BP predictions.
Performance evaluation of atomic layer deposited TiO2/TiN nanolaminates used as infrared photodetectors
Authors: Scarel G. , Kokhan O. , Wheeler V. D.
Published: February 2024

We study the interaction with photodetectors of near infrared (NIR) laser light with power P in the range of mW and period τ = 3.55 fs (wavelength λ = 1064 nm, frequency ν = 0.28 PHz). We fabricate the photodetectors by depositing different sequences of thin TiO2/TiN nano-laminates onto glass substrates using atomic layer deposition (ALD). To evaluate the photodetector's performance, we assume Pτ to be the energy transferred to them from NIR laser light, allowing us to extract the photodetector's inductance L at zero bias voltage, and to explicitly link P to the photocurrent ΔI, or photovoltage ΔV, generated by the photodetector. Such a link is observed in the literature, but not justified. We further assume Pλ = P λ/lact to be the effective power illuminating the photodetector with size lact. This assumption enables us to determine the photodetector's current responsivity (πI), noise equivalent power (NEP), and detectivity (D). To establish whether Pτ and Pλ correctly account for the energy and the power involved in the photodetector's interaction with light, we compare L, πI, NEP, and D of our photodetectors to the corresponding parameters of state-of-the-art (SOA) devices reported in the literature. The comparison indicates that the L, πI, NEP, and D of our photodetectors are in the range of SOA devices, thus validating our assumptions on Pτ and Pλ. Finally, our findings provide suggestions on how to improve thin ALD TiO2/TiN nano-laminates as suitable active materials in photodetectors.
Modeling embryo-endometrial interface recapitulating human embryo implantation
Authors: Shibata Shun , Endo Shun , Nagai Luis A. E. , H. Kobayashi Eri , Oike Akira , Kobayashi Norio , Kitamura Akane , Hori Takeshi , Nashimoto Yuji , Nakato Ryuichiro , Hamada Hirotaka , Kaji Hirokazu , Kikutake Chie , Suyama Mikita , Saito Masatoshi , Yaegashi Nobuo , Okae Hiroaki , Arima Takahiro
Published: February 2024

The initiation of human pregnancy is marked by the implantation of an embryo into the uterine environment; however, the underlying mechanisms remain largely elusive. To address this knowledge gap, we developed hormone-responsive endometrial organoids (EMO), termed apical-out (AO)–EMO, which emulate the in vivo architecture of endometrial tissue. The AO-EMO comprise an exposed apical epithelium surface, dense stromal cells, and a self-formed endothelial network. When cocultured with human embryonic stem cell–derived blastoids, the three-dimensional feto-maternal assembloid system recapitulates critical implantation stages, including apposition, adhesion, and invasion. Endometrial epithelial cells were subsequently disrupted by syncytial cells, which invade and fuse with endometrial stromal cells. We validated this fusion of syncytiotrophoblasts and stromal cells using human blastocysts. Our model provides a foundation for investigating embryo implantation and feto-maternal interactions, offering valuable insights for advancing reproductive medicine.
Anomalous isotope effect on the optical bandgap in a monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide semiconductor
Authors: Yu Yiling , Turkowski Volodymyr , Hachtel Jordan A. , Puretzky Alexander A. , Ievlev Anton V. , Din Naseem U. , Harris Sumner B. , Iyer Vasudevan , Rouleau Christopher M. , Rahman Talat S. , Geohegan David B. , Xiao Kai
Published: February 2024

Isotope effects have received increasing attention in materials science and engineering because altering isotopes directly affects phonons, which can affect both thermal properties and optoelectronic properties of conventional semiconductors. However, how isotopic mass affects the optoelectronic properties in 2D semiconductors remains unclear because of measurement uncertainties resulting from sample heterogeneities. Here, we report an anomalous optical bandgap energy red shift of 13 (±7) milli–electron volts as mass of Mo isotopes is increased in laterally structured
100
MoS
2
-
92
MoS
2
monolayers grown by a two-step chemical vapor deposition that mitigates the effects of heterogeneities. This trend, which is opposite to that observed in conventional semiconductors, is explained by many-body perturbation and time-dependent density functional theories that reveal unusually large exciton binding energy renormalizations exceeding the ground-state renormalization energy due to strong coupling between confined excitons and phonons. The isotope effect on the optical bandgap reported here provides perspective on the important role of exciton-phonon coupling in the physical properties of two-dimensional materials.
From breast cancer cell homing to the onset of early bone metastasis: The role of bone (re)modeling in early lesion formation
Authors: Young Sarah A. E. , Heller Anna-Dorothea , Garske Daniela S. , Rummler Maximilian , Qian Victoria , Ellinghaus Agnes , Duda Georg N. , Willie Bettina M. , Grüneboom Anika , Cipitria Amaia
Published: February 2024

Breast cancer often metastasizes to bone, causing osteolytic lesions. Structural and biophysical changes are rarely studied yet are hypothesized to influence metastasis. We developed a mouse model of early bone metastasis and multimodal imaging to quantify cancer cell homing, bone (re)modeling, and onset of metastasis. Using tissue clearing and three-dimensional (3D) light sheet fluorescence microscopy, we located enhanced green fluorescent protein–positive cancer cells and small clusters in intact bones and quantified their size and spatial distribution. We detected early bone lesions using in vivo microcomputed tomography (microCT)–based time-lapse morphometry and revealed altered bone (re)modeling in the absence of detectable lesions. With a new microCT image analysis tool, we tracked the growth of early lesions over time. We showed that cancer cells home in all bone compartments, while osteolytic lesions are only detected in the metaphysis, a region of high (re)modeling. Our study suggests that higher rates of (re)modeling act as a driver of lesion formation during early metastasis.
Roles of RNA scaffolding in nanoscale Gag multimerization and selective protein sorting at HIV membranes
Authors: Ying Yachen , Yang Yantao , Chen Antony K.
Published: February 2024

HIV-1 Gag proteins can multimerize upon the viral genomic RNA or multiple random cellular messenger RNAs to form a virus particle or a virus-like particle, respectively. To date, whether the two types of particles form via the same Gag multimerization process has remained unclarified. Using photoactivated localization microscopy to illuminate Gag organizations and dynamics at the nanoscale, here, we showed that genomic RNA mediates Gag multimerization in a more cluster-centric, cooperative, and spatiotemporally coordinated fashion, with the ability to drive dense Gag clustering dependent on its ability to act as a long-stranded scaffold not easily attainable by cellular messenger RNAs. These differences in Gag multimerization were further shown to affect downstream selective protein sorting into HIV membranes, indicating that the choice of RNA for packaging can modulate viral membrane compositions. These findings should advance the understanding of HIV assembly and further benefit the development of virus-like particle–based therapeutics.
Fast optoelectronic charge state conversion of silicon vacancies in diamond
Authors: Rieger Manuel , Villafañe Viviana , Todenhagen Lina M. , Matthies Stephan , Appel Stefan , Brandt Martin S. , Müller Kai , Finley Jonathan J.
Published: February 2024

Group IV vacancy color centers in diamond are promising spin-photon interfaces with strong potential for applications in photonic quantum technologies. Reliable methods for controlling and stabilizing their charge state are urgently needed for scaling to multiqubit devices. Here, we manipulate the charge state of silicon vacancy (SiV) ensembles by combining luminescence and photocurrent spectroscopy. We controllably convert the charge state between the optically active SiV
−
and dark SiV
2−
with megahertz rates and >90% contrast by judiciously choosing the local potential applied to in-plane surface electrodes and the laser excitation wavelength. We observe intense SiV
−
photoluminescence under hole capture, measure the intrinsic conversion time from the dark SiV
2−
to the bright SiV
−
to be 36.4(67) ms, and demonstrate how it can be enhanced by a factor of 10
5
via optical pumping. Moreover, we obtain previously unknown information on the defects that contribute to photoconductivity, indicating the presence of substitutional nitrogen and divacancies.
Increasing transposase abundance with ocean depth correlates with a particle-associated lifestyle
Authors: Zhong Juntao , Osborn Troy , Del Rosario Hernández Thais , Kyrysyuk Oleksandr , Tully Benjamin J. , Anderson Rika E.
Published: February 2024

Transposases are mobile genetic elements that move within and between genomes, promoting genomic plasticity in microorganisms. In marine microbial communities, the abundance of transposases increases with depth, but the reasons behind this trend remain unclear. Our analysis of metagenomes from the
Tara
Oceans and Malaspina Expeditions suggests that a particle-associated lifestyle is the main covariate for the high occurrence of transposases in the deep ocean, and this trend holds true for individual genomes as well as in a community-wide sense. We observed a strong and depth-independent correlation between transposase abundance and the presence of biofilm-associated genes, as well as the prevalence of secretory enzymes. This suggests that mobile genetic elements readily propagate among microbial communities within crowded biofilms. Furthermore, we show that particle association positively correlates with larger genome size, which is in turn associated with higher transposase abundance. Cassette sequences associated with transposons are enriched with genes related to defense mechanisms, which are more highly expressed in the deep sea. Thus, while transposons spread at the expense of their microbial hosts, they also introduce novel genes and potentially benefit the hosts in helping to compete for limited resources. Overall, our results suggest a new understanding of deep ocean particles as highways for gene sharing among defensively oriented microbial genomes.

IMPORTANCE

Genes can move within and between microbial genomes via mobile genetic elements, which include transposases and transposons. In the oceans, there is a puzzling increase in transposase abundance in microbial genomes as depth increases. To gain insight into this trend, we conducted an extensive analysis of marine microbial metagenomes and metatranscriptomes. We found a significant correlation between transposase abundance and a particle-associated lifestyle among marine microbes at both the metagenome and genome-resolved levels. We also observed a link between transposase abundance and genes related to defense mechanisms. These results suggest that as microbes become densely packed into crowded particles, mobile genes are more likely to spread and carry genetic material that provides a competitive advantage in crowded habitats. This may enable deep sea microbes to effectively compete in such environments.
Wild mushrooms as potential reservoirs of plant pathogenic bacteria: a case study on
Burkholderia gladioli
Authors: Hamidizade Mozhde , Taghavi S. Mohsen , Soleimani Ardavan , Bouazar Mohammad , Abachi Hamid , Portier Perrine , Osdaghi Ebrahim
Published: February 2024

Fruit bodies (sporocarps) of wild mushrooms growing in natural environments play a substantial role in the preservation of microbial communities, for example, clinical and food-poisoning bacteria. However, the role of wild mushrooms as natural reservoirs of plant pathogenic bacteria remains almost entirely unknown. Furthermore, bacterial transmission from a mushroom species to agricultural plants has rarely been recorded in the literature. In September 2021, a creamy-white Gram-negative bacterial strain was isolated from the sporocarp of
Suillus luteus
(slippery jack) growing in Bermuda grass (
Cynodon dactylon
) lawn in Southern Iran. A similar strain was isolated from the same fungus in the same area in September 2022. Both strains were identified as
Burkholderia gladioli
based on phenotypic features as well as phylogeny of 16S rRNA and three housekeeping genes. The strains were not only pathogenic on white button mushrooms (
Agaricus bisporus
) but also induced hypersensitive reaction (HR) on tobacco and common bean leaves and caused soft rot on a set of diverse plant species, that is, chili pepper, common bean pod, cucumber, eggplant, garlic, gladiolus, narcissus, onion, potato, spring onion, okra, kohlrabi, mango, and watermelon. Isolation of plant pathogenic
B. gladioli
strains from sporocarp of
S. luteus
in two consecutive years in the same area could be indicative of the role of this fungus in the preservation of the bacterium in the natural environment.
B. gladioli
associated with naturally growing
S. luteus
could potentially invade neighboring agricultural crops, for example, vegetables and ornamentals. The potential role of wild mushrooms as natural reservoirs of phytopathogenic bacteria is further discussed.

IMPORTANCE

The bacterial genus
Burkholderia
contains biologically heterogeneous strains that can be isolated from diverse habitats, that is, soil, water, diseased plant material, and clinical specimens. In this study, two Gram-negative pectinolytic bacterial strains were isolated from the sporocarps of
Suillus luteus
in September 2021 and 2022. Molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed that both strains belonged to the complex species
Burkholderia gladioli
, while the pathovar status of the strains remained undetermined. Biological investigations accomplished with pathogenicity and host range assays showed that
B. gladioli
strains isolated from
S. luteus
in two consecutive years were pathogenic on a set of diverse plant species ranging from ornamentals to both monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous vegetables. Thus,
B. gladioli
could be considered an infectious pathogen capable of being transmitted from wild mushrooms to annual crops. Our results raise a hypothesis that wild mushrooms could be considered as potential reservoirs for phytopathogenic
B. gladioli
.
Efficacy of TIPS plus extrahepatic collateral embolisation in real-world data: a validation study
Authors: Zhao Lianhui , Tie Jun , Wang Guangchuan , Li Zhengjie , Xu Jiao , Zhuge Yuzheng , Zhang Feng , Wu Hao , Wei Bo , Xue Hui , Li Peijie , Wu Wei , Chen Chao , Wu Qiong , Xia Yifu , Sun Xiubin , Zhang Chunqing
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) plus extrahepatic collateral embolisation (TIPS+E) in reducing rebleeding and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) post-TIPS was recently reported in a meta-analysis, but further validation is essential. This study aims to confirm the effectiveness of TIPS+E using real-world data.

Methods

The multicentre retrospective cohort included 2077 patients with cirrhosis who underwent TIPS±E (TIPS: 631, TIPS+E: 1446) between January 2010 and December 2022. Regression and propensity score matching (PSM) were used to adjust for baseline characteristic differences. After PSM, clinical outcomes, including rebleeding, HE, survival and further decompensation (FDC), were analysed. Baseline data from all patients contributed to the construction of prognostic models.

Results

After PSM, 1136 matched patients (TIPS+E: TIPS=568:568) were included. TIPS+E demonstrated a significant reduction in rebleeding (HR 0.77; 95% CI 0.59 to 0.99; p=0.04), HE (HR 0.82; 95% CI 0.68 to 0.99; p=0.04) and FDC (HR 0.85; 95% CI 0.73 to 0.99; p=0.04), comparing to TIPS. Significantly, TIPS+E also reduced rebleeding, HE and FDC in subgroup of using 8 mm diameter stents and embolising of gastric varices+spontaneous portosystemic shunts (GV+SPSS). However, there were no differences in overall or subgroup survival analysis. Additionally, the random forest models showed higher accuracy and AUROC comparing to other models. Controlling post-TIPS portal pressure gradient (pPPG) within 7 mm Hg<pPPG<8.5 mm Hg improved prognosis, especially in TIPS+E group.

Conclusion

Our real-world data validation confirms the high efficacy of TIPS+E in reducing rebleeding and HE, particularly when using 8 mm diameter stents, embolising GV+SPSS and maintaining an optimal pPPG.
Percutaneous vertebroplasty versus percutaneous kyphoplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: an umbrella review protocol of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Gao Qingyang , Li Qiujiang , Wang Liang , Cen Ying , Yang Huiliang
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have confirmed that percutaneous vertebroplasty and percutaneous kyphoplasty showed safety and beneficial efficacy in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Whereas, there is wide variation among results, which are not conducive to the evaluation and use of clinicians. This study will investigate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous vertebroplasty and percutaneous kyphoplasty for the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, aiming to provide a more reliable evidence base for clinical practice in treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.

Methods and analysis

We will retrieve the relevant articles using the five databases(PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science) from inception to March 2023 for systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the overall safety and efficacy of percutaneous vertebroplasty and percutaneous kyphoplasty in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Three reviewers will screen citation titles, abstracts and evaluate the full text of each relevant citation based on prespecified eligibility criteria. Any discrepancies in decisions between reviewers will be resolved through discussion. We will assess the methodological quality of the included studies according to A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2 checklist.

Ethics and dissemination

This umbrella review will inform clinical and policy decisions regarding the benefits and harms of percutaneous vertebroplasty versus percutaneous kyphoplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Neither primary data nor individual patient information will be collected, thus ethics approval is not required. Findings will be reported through a peer-reviewed publication, conference presentations and the popular press.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021268141.